Article carrier and blank therefor

ABSTRACT

An article carrier comprises a collapsible tubular structure and a foldable end closure. The end closure comprises a first panel and a second panel. The first panel comprises a proximal portion hinged to the tubular structure along a first fold line and a distal portion hinged to the proximal portion along a second fold line. The second panel is hinged to the tubular structure along third fold line. The second panel is secured to the distal portion in face-contacting arrangement. The first, second, third fold lines are parallel to one another. The distal portion has a first free edge non-parallel to the first fold line. The second panel has a second free edge which is configured identical, or complementary, at least in part to at least part of the first free edge.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to carriers and to blanks for forming thesame. More specifically, but not exclusively, the invention relates to acarrier having a partition structure feature defining cells orcompartments within an interior of a carrier of the basket-style.

BACKGROUND

In the field of packaging it is known to provide article carriers orcartons for carrying multiple articles. Cartons are well known in theart and are useful for enabling consumers to transport, store and accessa group of articles for consumption. For cost and environmentalconsiderations, such cartons or carriers need to be formed from aslittle material as possible and cause as little wastage in the materialsfrom which they are formed as possible. Further considerations are thestrength of the carton and its suitability for holding and transportinglarge weights of articles. It is desirable that the contents of thecarton are secure within the carton.

It is an object of the present invention to provide to a carrier havinga partition structure for separating articles within an interior chamberof the carrier. it is desirable to minimise or reduce the materialrequired to produce the carrier for economic or environmental benefit orboth.

It is desirable that the blank from which the carrier is formed can bereadily assembled into a carrier in a simple and efficient manner.

The present invention seeks o provide an improvement in the field ofcartons, typically formed from paperboard or the like.

SUMMARY

A first aspect of the invention provides a collapsible article carrierfor packaging a plurality of articles. The article carrier comprises acollapsible tubular structure and an end closure. The end closurecomprises a first panel and a second panel. The first panel comprises aproximal portion hinged to the tubular structure along a first fold lineand a distal portion adjacent to the proximal portion. The second panelis hinged to the tubular structure along third fold line and is securedto the distal portion in face-contacting arrangement. The first andthird fold lines are parallel to one another. The distal portion has afirst free edge non-parallel to the first fold line. The second panelhas a second free edge at least part of which is configuredcomplementary to at least part of the first free edge and is disposedoffset from the first free edge such that the first and second freeedges extend alongside one another.

Optionally, the first and second panels are bottom panels of thecarrier.

Optionally, a plurality of primary panels provide walls of the tubularstructure and define an interior of the carrier, the walls includingfirst and second opposed side walls and first and second opposed endwalls.

Optionally, the first and second panels are hinged to a respective oneof the first and second opposed side walls.

Optionally, the second free edge is offset from the first free edge in adirection tending along the first fold line.

Optionally, the first and second opposed end walls each comprise a hingeto facilitate folding of the collapsible tubular structure between astowed condition and an erected condition.

Optionally, each of the first and second edges comprises at least onestraight segment extending obliquely with respect to the first foldline.

Optionally, the at least one straight segment comprises two or morestraight edge segments each angled with respect to an adjacent one ofthe straight segments.

Optionally, each of the first and second edges further comprises atleast one curved segment.

Optionally, each of the first and second edges comprises a shaped edge.

Optionally, the shaped edge comprises at least one curved segment.

Optionally, the shaped edge has a serpentine shape.

Optionally, the first panel may comprise at least one post receivingopening or recess.

Optionally, the second panel may comprise at least one post receivingopening or recess.

Optionally, the distal portion is hinged to the proximal portion along asecond fold line.

Optionally, the first panel may comprise at least one post receivingopening or recess.

Optionally, the at least one post receiving opening may interrupt thesecond fold line.

Optionally, the end closure is foldable.

Optionally, the first, second and third fold lines are parallel to oneanother.

A second aspect of the invention provides a collapsible article carrierfor packaging a plurality of articles. The article carrier comprises acollapsible tubular structure and a foldable end closure. The endclosure comprises a first panel and a second panel. The first panelcomprises a proximal portion hinged to the tubular structure along afirst fold line and a distal portion hinged to the proximal portionalong a second fold line. The second panel is hinged to the tubularstructure along third fold line and is secured to the distal portion inface-contacting arrangement. The first, second, and third fold lines areparallel to one another. The distal portion has a first free edgenon-parallel to the first fold line. The second panel has a second freeedge at least part of which is configured identical to at least part ofthe first free edge and is disposed offset from the first free edge suchthat the first and second free edges extend alongside one another.

Optionally, each of the first and second edges comprises at least onestraight segment extending obliquely with respect to the first foldline.

Optionally, the at least one straight segment comprises two or morestraight edge segments each angled with respect to an adjacent one ofthe straight segments.

Optionally, each of the first and second edges further comprises atleast one curved segment.

Optionally, each of the first and second edges comprises a shaped edge.

Optionally, the shaped edge comprises at least one curved segment.

Optionally, the shaped edge has a serpentine shape.

Optionally, the article carrier comprises a medial partition wailinterposed parallel between first and second side panels to divide theinterior into two or more article-receiving cells.

A third aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an articlecarrier. The blank comprises a plurality of primary panels for formingwalls of a tubular structure defining an interior chamber. The blankcomprises a first panel and a second panel for forming a foldable endclosure. The first panel comprises a proximal portion hinged, along afirst fold line, to one of the panels forming a wall of the tubularstructure and a distal portion hinged to the proximal portion along asecond fold line The second panel is hinged, along third fold line, to asecond one of the panels forming an opposing wall of the tubularstructure. The second panel is configured to be securable to the distalportion in face-contacting arrangement in at least partial overlappingrelationship therewith. The first, second, and third fold lines areparallel to one another. The distal portion has a first free edgenon-parallel to the first fold line. The second panel has a second freeedge at least part of which is shaped complementary to at least part ofthe first free edge and wherein the second free edge is disposed offsetfrom the first free edge when the blank is erected to form the articlecarrier.

Optionally, the second free edge is offset from the first free edge in adirection along h first fold line when the blank is erected to form thecarrier.

Optionally, the second free edge is arranged to extend alongside thefirst free edge in set up carrier when in an erected condition and whenin a stowed condition.

A fourth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an articlecarrier. The blank comprises a plurality of primary panels for formingwalls of a tubular structure defining an interior chamber. The blankcomprises a first panel and a second panel for forming a foldable endclosure. The first panel comprises a proximal portion hinged, along afirst fold line, to one of the panels forming a wall of the tubularstructure and a distal portion hinged to the proximal portion along asecond fold line. The second panel is hinged, along third fold line, toa second one of the panels forming an opposing wall of the tubularstructure. The second panel is configured to be securable to the distalportion in face-contacting arrangement in at least partial overlappingrelationship therewith. The first, second, and third fold lines areparallel to one another. The distal portion has a first free edgenon-parallel to the first fold line. The second panel has a second freeedge at least part of which is shaped identical to at least part of thefirst free edge and wherein the second free edge is disposed offset fromthe first free edge when the blank is erected to form the articlecarrier.

Optionally, in any of the above-described aspects of the invention, oneof the medial or intermediate panels comprises one or more score lines.

Optionally, in any of the above-described aspects of the invention, oneof the medial or intermediate panels comprises one or more embossedregions.

A fifth aspect of the invention provides a carton which comprises aplurality of walls. At least some of the plurality of walls define aninterior of the carton. One of the plurality of walls comprises a planarwall structure which includes a first panel and a second panel. Thefirst and second panels are secured together in an overlappingarrangement such that at least the first panel comprises a first area inflat face contacting arrangement with the second panel and a second areawhich is free of contact with the second panel. The first panel furthercomprises a plurality of score lines formed along the second area.

Optionally, each of the score lines may be linear and the score linesmay be arranged substantially parallel to each other and in a seriessuch that each score line is adjacent another score line.

Optionally, the second panel may have a free edge disposed along aboundary of the first and second areas of the first panel. The free edgemay extend substantially parallel to the plurality of score lines.

Optionally, the first panel may have an embossed region within thesecond area. The embossed region may be positioned adjacent to therespective end points of the plurality of score lines.

A sixth aspect of the invention provides an article carrier forpackaging one or more articles and a blank for forming the articlecarrier. The article carrier comprises a collapsible tubular structureand an end closure. The end closure comprises a first panel and a secondpanel. The first panel is hinged to the tubular structure along a firstfold line. The first panel comprises an opposing first free edge, atleast one first panel-interlocking element, and a row of first handlingopenings. The row of first handling or machine openings is locatedcloser to the first fold line than the at least one firstpanel-interlocking element. The second panel is hinged to the tubularstructure along second fold line. The second panel comprises an opposingsecond free edge and at least one second panel-interlocking element. Thefirst and second panel-interlocking elements are aligned and engagedtogether such that the first and second panels are in face-contactingoverlapping arrangement. The first panel has a first side edge extendingbetween the first fold line and the first free edge. The second panelhas a second side edge extending between the second fold line and thesecond free edge. At least a part of the first side edge is configuredcomplementary to at least a part of the second free edge. At least apart of the second side edge is disposed between the at least one firstpanel-interlocking element and one of the first handling openings suchthat no part of the second side edge overlaps any one of the at leastone first panel-interlocking element and the first handling openings.

Optionally, at least part of the second free edge is disposed betweenthe first fold line and a first notional line.

Optionally, at least part of the first free edge is disposed betweensecond fold line and a second notional line.

Optionally, the second panel comprises a row of second handling ormachine openings.

Optionally, the row of second handling openings is located closer to thesecond fold line than the at least one second panel-interlockingelement.

Optionally, at least a part of the first side edge is disposed betweenthe at least one second panel-interlocking element and one of secondhandling openings such that no part of the first side edge overlaps anyone of the at least one second panel-interlocking element and the secondhandling openings.

A seventh aspect of the invention provides an article carrier forpackaging one or more articles and a blank for forming the articlecarrier. The article carrier comprises a plurality of primary panelsforming a tubular structure defining an interior of the article carrier.The article carrier comprises an intermediate wall dividing the interiorinto two chambers. The intermediate wail comprises an article guardcomprising at least one flap configured to be disposed between anarticle and a post of a tertiary package or crate receivable in theinterior of the article carrier. The at least one flap defines, at leastin part, an opening in the intermediate wall for receiving said post.

Advantageously, the article guard protects or defends the articles fromthe crate post.

An eighth aspect of the invention provides an article carrier forpackaging one or more articles and a blank for forming the articlecarrier. The article carrier comprises a plurality of primary panelsforming a tubular structure defining an interior of the article carrierand an end wall closing an end of the tubular structure, and anintermediate wall dividing the interior into a pair of chambers. Theintermediate wall comprises a post receiving opening and a securingdevice for retaining the carrier in an erected condition. The postreceiving opening is arranged to accommodate at least one post of atertiary package receivable in the article carrier through the end wall.The securing device comprises a hook or catch defined at least in partby a portion of post receiving opening. The securing device and the postreceiving opening are defined in entirety within the intermediate wall.

Optionally, the securing device and the post receiving opening definedin entirety within a panel forming the intermediate wall.

A ninth aspect of the invention provides an article carrier forpackaging one or more articles and a blank for forming the articlecarrier. The article carrier comprises a plurality of primary panelsforming a tubular structure defining an interior of the article carrier,an intermediate wall dividing the interior into a pair of chambers. Theintermediate wall comprises a post receiving opening and at least onepartition structure. The at least one partition structure separates oneof the pair of chambers into two or more article-receiving cells. Thepost receiving opening is arranged to accommodate at least one post of atertiary package receivable in the interior of the article carrier. Thepost receiving opening is disposed between the at least one partitionstructure and an end wall closing an end of the tubular structure and isspaced apart from the at least one partition structure by a portion ofthe intermediate wall.

A tenth aspect of the invention provides a packaging system comprisingthe article carrier as described in the previous paragraph, a pluralityof articles disposed in the interior of the carrier and a tertiarypackage in which the carrier is disposed. The post is received in theinterior of the carrier and is disposed in a void defined at least inpart by two or more articles. The portion of the intermediate wallbetween the at least one partition structure and the post receivingopening is disposed over said at least one post.

An eleventh aspect of the invention provides an article carrier forpackaging one or more articles and a blank for forming the articlecarrier. The article carrier comprises a plurality of primary panelsforming a tubular structure defining an interior of the article carrier,an end wall closing an end of the tubular structure, and an intermediatewall dividing the interior into a pair of chambers. The intermediatewall comprises a first medial panel and a second medial panel. Thesecond medial panel is hingedly connected to a first edge of the firstmedial panel by a hinged connection. The first edge of the first medialpanel faces the end wall. The first medial panel and the second medialpanel comprise at least one cutaway interrupting the hinged connectionand defining a recess in each of first and second medial panels. Therecess in each of first and second medial panels forms a post receivingopening between the intermediate wall and the end wall for receiving atleast one post of a tertiary package.

Further features and advantages of the present invention will beapparent from the specific embodiments illustrated in the drawings anddiscussed below.

Within the scope of this application it is envisaged or intended thatthe various aspects, embodiments, examples, features and alternativesset out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in thefollowing description and drawings may be considered or takenindependently or in any combination thereof.

Features or elements described in connection with, or relation to, oneembodiment are applicable to all embodiments unless there is anincompatibility of features. One or more features or elements from oneembodiment may be incorporated into, or combined with, any of the otherembodiments disclosed herein, said features or elements extracted fromsaid one embodiment may be included in addition to, or in replacement ofone or more features or elements of said other embodiment.

A feature, or combination of features, of an embodiment disclosed hereinmay be extracted in isolation from other features of that embodiment.Alternatively, a feature, or combination of features, of an embodimentmay be omitted from that embodiment.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to theaccompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrieraccording to a first embodiment;

FIG. 1B is an enlarged view of a portion of the blank of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 2 illustrates two blanks according to FIG. 1 arranged in a nestedconfiguration;

FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate stages of construction of the blank of FIG. 1into a carrier;

FIGS. 4A to 4C illustrate further stages of construction of the blank ofFIG. 1 into a carrier;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG.1 ;

FIG. 6 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrieraccording to a second embodiment;

FIG. 7 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrieraccording to a third embodiment;

FIG. 8 is a plan view from above of blank for forming a carrieraccording to a fourth embodiment;

FIG. 9 is a bottom plan view of the carrier of FIG. 5 ;

FIG. 10 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrieraccording to certain embodiments;

FIG. 11 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrieraccording to a sixth embodiment;

FIG. 12 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrieraccording to a seventh embodiment;

FIG. 13 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrieraccording to an eighth embodiment;

FIG. 14 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrieraccording to a ninth embodiment;

FIG. 14B illustrates a stage of construction of a carrier from the blankof FIG. 14 ;

FIG. 14C illustrates two blanks according to FIG. 14 arranged in anested configuration;

FIG. 15 is a plan vie from above of a blank for forming a carrieraccording to a tenth embodiment;

FIG. 16 is a plan view rom above of a blank for forming a carrieraccording to an eleventh embodiment;

FIG. 17 is a bottom plan view of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG.14 ;

FIG. 18 is a bottom plan view of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG.15 ;

FIGS. 19A and 19B are side and top views respectively of a crateincluding articles or use with carriers formed from the blanks of FIGS.11 to 16 ;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view from above of a portion of a crate havinga carrier from the blank of FIG. 11 loaded therein;

FIG. 21 is an internal perspective view of a portion of a carrier fromthe blank of FIG. 12 and shows a crate post received therein; and

FIG. 22 is an internal perspective view of a portion of a carrier fromthe blank of FIG. 14 and shows a crate post received therein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of the package, blanks andcartons are disclosed herein. It will be understood that the disclosedembodiments are merely examples of the way in which certain aspects ofthe invention can be implemented and do not represent an exhaustive listof all of the ways the invention may be embodied. As used herein, theword “exemplary” is used expansively to refer to embodiments that serveas illustrations, specimens, models, or patterns. Indeed, it will beunderstood that the packages, blanks and cartons described herein may beembodied in various and alternative forms. The Figures are notnecessarily to scale and some features may be exaggerated or minimisedto show details of particular components. Well-known components,materials or methods are not necessarily described in great detail inorder to avoid obscuring the present disclosure. Any specific structuraland functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted aslimiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representativebasis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ theinvention.

Referring to FIG. 1 , there is shown a plan view of a blank 10 capableof forming a carton or carrier 90, as shown in FIG. 5 , for containingand carrying a group of primary products such as, but not limited to,bottles, hereinafter referred to as articles. The blank 10 forms asecondary package of the basket-carrier style for packaging at least oneprimary product container or package.

Alternative blanks 10′; 110; 210; 310; 410; 510; 610; 710; 810; 910 areillustrated in FIGS. 10, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16respectively.

In the embodiments detailed herein, the terms “carton” and “carrier”refer, for the non-limiting purpose of illustrating the various featuresof the invention, to a container 90 for engaging and carrying articles,such as primary product containers. It is contemplated that theteachings of the invention can be applied to various product containers,which may or may not be tapered and/or cylindrical. Other exemplarycontainers include bottles (for example metallic, glass or plasticsbottles), cans (for example aluminium cans), tins, pouches, packets andthe like.

The blank 10; 10′; 110; 210; 310; 410; 510; 610; 710; 810; 910 areformed from a sheet of suitable substrate. It is to be understood that,as used herein, the term “suitable substrate” includes all manner offoldable sheet material such as paperboard, corrugated board, cardboard,plastic, combinations thereof, and the like. It should be recognisedthat one or other numbers of blanks may be employed, where suitable, forexample, to provide the carrier structure described in more detailbelow.

The packaging structures or cartons 90; 490; 590; 790; 890 describedherein may be formed from a sheet material such as paperboard, which maybe made of or coated with materials to increase its strength. An exampleof such a sheet material is tear-resistant NATRALOCK® paperboard made byWestRock Company. It should be noted that the tear resistant materialsmay be provided by more than one layer, to help improve thetear-resistance of the package. Typically, one surface of the sheetmaterial may have different characteristics to the other surface. Forexample, the surface of the sheet material that faces outwardly from afinished package may be particularly smooth and may have a coating suchas a clay coating or other surface treatment to provide goodprintability. The surface of the sheet material that faces inwardly may,on the other hand, be provided with a coating, a layer, a treatment orbe otherwise prepared to provide properties such as one or more oftear-resistance, good glue-ability, heat sealability, or other desiredfunctional properties.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 , the blank 10 is configured toform a carton or carrier 90 for packaging an exemplary arrangement ofexemplary articles. In the illustrated embodiments, the arrangement isan m×n matrix or array, having two rows (m=2) and three columns (n=3);in the illustrated embodiment, two rows of three articles are provided,and the articles are 330 ml bottles, the bottles may be formed from asuitable material such as, but not limited to, glass, Aluminium or PET(polyester-polyethylene terephthalate).

The blanks 10; 10′; 110; 210; 310; 410; 510; 610; 710; 810; 910 can beconfigured to form a carrier for packaging other types, number and sizeof articles and/or for packaging articles in a different arrangement orconfiguration for example, but not limited to, fully enclosed cartons orwrap-around carriers, the articles may be cups, pouches, pots or cans.

Turning to FIG. 1 , there is illustrated a blank 10 for forming a carton90 (see FIG. 3 ) according to a first embodiment. The blank 10 comprisesa plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 arranged in alinear series hinged one to the next by fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19, 2123, 25, 27 respectively.

The blank 10 comprises a plurality of outer panels 16, 18, 20, 22, 24,26 for forming a tubular structure. The plurality of outer panels 16,18, 20, 22, 24, 26 comprises a first end panel 16. A first side panel 18is hingedly connected to the first end panel 16 by a hinged connectionin the form of a fold line 17. A second end panel 20 is hingedlyconnected to the first side panel 18 by a hinged connection in the formof a fold line 17. A third end panel 22 is hingedly connected to thesecond end panel 20 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line21. A second side panel 24 is hingedly connected to the third end panel22 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 23 and a fourth endpanel 26 is hingedly connected to the second side panel 24 by a hingedconnection in the form of a fold line 25.

The blank 10 comprises a first base panel 38A/38C hinged to the firstside panel 18 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 37A. Thefirst base panel 38A/38C comprises a fold line 39 extending in alongitudinal direction x across the first base panel 38A/38C so as todefine first and second portions 38A, 38C respectively. The first andsecond portions 38A, 38C are also referred to herein as proximal anddistal portions respectively. The blank 10 comprises a second base panel38B hinged to the second side panel 24 by a hinged connection in theform of a fold line 37B. The first and second base panels 38A/38C, 38Bare also referred to herein as end closure flaps since they close an endof the tubular structure formed by the plurality of outer panels 16, 18,20, 22, 24, 26.

The first and second base panels 38A/38C, 38B are engageable with oneanother in an overlapping relationship to form a composite base wall38A/38C/38B of the carrier 90.

Optionally, the first base panel 38A/38C may comprise at least onecutaway struck from an end edge. The cutaway is engageable with a hookor catch provided by at least one of the plurality of panels 12, 14, 16,18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28.

The blank 10 may comprise a medial structure including a first medialpanel 14 and a second medial panel 28. Medial panels 14, 28 are alsoreferred to herein as intermediate panels.

The first medial panel 14 is hingedly connected at a first end of theplurality of outer panels 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, to the first end panel16, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 15.

The second medial panel 28 is hingedly connected at a second, opposing,end of the plurality of outer panels 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, to thefourth end panel 28, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line27.

The first and second medial panels 14, 28 form a divider (or planarmedial wall structure) extending longitudinally (as indicated by thedirection arrow L in FIG. 5 ) between the end walls of the carrier 90.

The first medial panel 14 provides a first handle panel portion 14A. Thesecond medial panel 28 provides a second handle panel portion 28A.Together the first and second medial panels 14, 28 provide a two-plyhandle structure, the second ply reinforcing the first ply.

The first handle panel portion 14A comprises a first handle opening.

The first handle opening may be defined at least in part by a firsthandle aperture A2 struck from an upper portion of the first medialpanel 14.

The second handle panel portion 28A comprises a second handle opening.

The second handle opening may be defined at least in part by a secondhandle aperture A3 struck from, or defined within, an upper portion ofthe second medial panel 28.

The second handle opening is arranged to be disposed in registry oralignment with the first handle opening in a setup condition.

The blank 10 comprises a securing panel in the form of a medialpartition glue flap 12 hingedly connected to an end of the first medialpanel 14 (said end opposes an opposing end of the first medial panel 14to which the first end panel 16 is hingedly connected, defined by foldline 15) by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 13. The foldline 13 may be interrupted by at least one cutaway in the form of anaperture A1, in the illustrated embodiment two apertures Al interruptfold line 13 so as to reduce the folding resistance.

Optionally, the blank 10 comprises a handle reinforcing structurecomprising a first and second handle reinforcing panels 32, 34.

The first handle reinforcing panel 32 is disposed adjacent to the secondend panel 20 and to the first side panel 18. First handle reinforcingpanel 32 is separated from second end panel 20 by a first cutline. Thefirst handle reinforcing panel 32 is separated from first side panel 18by a second cutline 51.

The first handle reinforcing panel 32 is hingedly connected to secondhandle reinforcing panel 4 by a hinged connection in the form of a foldline 33.

The second handle reinforcing panel 34 is disposed adjacent to the thirdend panel 22 and to the second side panel 24. Second handle reinforcingpanel 34 is separated from third end panel 22 by a third cutline. Thesecond handle reinforcing panel 34 is separated from second side panel24 by a fourth cutline 53. The second handle reinforcing panel 34 isconnected to second end panel 20 at a first side edge of the secondhandle reinforcing panel 34 by a connecting portion 44 in the form of ahinged connection collinearly arranged with fold line 33 and fold line21. The connecting portion 44 is sufficient to maintain the connectionbetween the second handle reinforcing panel 34 and the second end panel20 during handling of the blank 10 prior to assembly and optionallyduring at least a portion of the assembly process.

The handle structure comprises a first bridging panel 30, the firstbridging panel 30 is disposed adjacent to the first side panel 18 and isseparated therefrom by the second cutline 51. A first side edge of thefirst bridging panel 30 is coupled to a side edge of the first handlereinforcing panel 32 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line31. A second side edge of the first bridging panel 30 is coupled to aside edge of the first end panel 16 by a connecting portion in the formof a hinged connection collinearly arranged with fold line 17. Theconnecting portion is sufficient to maintain the connection between thefirst bridging panel 30 and the first end panel 16 during handling ofthe blank 10 prior to assembly and optionally during at least a portionof the assembly process.

The handle structure comprises a second bridging panel 36, the secondbridging panel 36 is disposed adjacent to the second side panel 24 andis separated therefrom by the fourth cutline 53. A first side edge ofthe second bridging panel 36 is coupled to a side edge of the secondhandle reinforcing panel 34 by a hinged connection in the form of a foldline 35. A second side edge of the second bridging panel 36 is coupledto a side edge of the fourth end panel 26 by a connecting portion 46 inthe form of a hinged connection collinearly arranged with fold line 25.The connecting portion 46 is sufficient to maintain the connectionbetween the second bridging panel 36 and the fourth end panel 26 duringhandling of the blank 10 prior to assembly and optionally during atleast a portion of the assembly process.

The first handle reinforcing panel 32 comprises a third handle opening.The third handle opening may be defined by an optional first cushioningflap 40 struck from the first handle reinforcing panel 32 and hingedthereto by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 41. The firstcushioning flap 40 defines at least a part of the third handle opening.

The second handle reinforcing panel 34 comprises a fourth handleopening. The fourth handle opening may be defined by an optional secondcushioning flap 42 struck from the second handle reinforcing panel 34and hinged thereto by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 43.The second cushioning flap 42 defines at least a part of the fourthhandle opening.

The third and fourth handle openings are arranged to be disposed inregistry or alignment with the first and second handle openings in asetup carrier 90.

The blank 10 may comprise a partition structure P1, P2 which defines orcreates a plurality of cells disposed on one or both sides of thedivider formed by first and second medial panels 14, 28.

The blank 10 comprises a first partition structure P1, best illustratedin FIG. 1B. The first partition structure P1 defines or creates aplurality of cells disposed between the first side panel 18 and thefirst medial panel 14. The first partition structure P1 is defined in afirst partition panel portion 14B provided by a lower portion of thefirst medial panel 14.

The blank 10 comprises a second partition structure P2, The secondpartition structure P2 defines or creates a plurality of cells disposedbetween the second side panel 24 and the second medial panel 28. Thesecond partition structure P2 is defined in a second partition panelportion 28B provided by a lower portion of the second medial panel 28.

The first side panel 18 and the second medial panel 14 along with thefirst and second end panels 16, 20 define a tubular structure or firstcompartment on a first side of the medial structure or divider.

The second side panel 24, the second medial panel 28 along with thethird and fourth end panels 22, 26 and a portion of the first medialpanel 14 define a tubular structure or second compartment on a secondside of the medial structure or divider.

The first compartment provides an interior for receiving at least alower portion of one or more articles. The second compartment providesan interior for receiving at least a lower portion of one or morearticles.

The first and second partition structures P1, P2 are substantiallysimilar in construction, albeit the second partition structure P2 is amirror image (in blank farm) of the first partition structure P1. Inthis way the first and second partition structures P1, P2 are disposedsubstantially in registry with each other when the blank 10 is foldedinto a flat collapsed form (see FIG. 4C). The first and second partitionstructures P1, P2 will be described in further detail by reference tothe first partition structure P1, as illustrated in FIG. 1B.

The first partition structure P1 comprises a first partition panel 64struck from, or defined in, the first medial panel 14 and hingedlyconnected, at a first or proximal end, thereto by a hinged connection inthe form of a fold line 63.

The first partition structure P1 comprises a second partition panel 68struck from, or defined in, the first medial panel 14 and hingedlyconnected, at first or a proximal end, thereto by a hinged connection inthe form of a fold line 69.

The first and second partition panels 64, 68 are dimensioned to extend,laterally, between the first medial panel 14 and the first side panel 18in a set up condition.

The first partition structure P1 comprises a first glue panel 72 towhich the first partition panel 64 is each coupled by a distal endjoint. The first partition structure P1 comprises a second glue panel 66to which the second partition panel 68 is each coupled by a distal endjoint.

The first partition panel 64 is defined by a cutline 73. The firstpartition panel 64 is hingedly connected, at a distal end, to the firstglue panel 72 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 67. Foldline 67 defines an outer end of the first partition panel 64, fold line63 defines an inner end of the first partition panel 64 a lineardimension is defined therebetween.

The second partition panel 68 is defined by a cutline 71. The secondpartition panel 68 is hingedly connected to the second glue panel 66 bya hinged connection in the form of fold line 77. The second partitionpanel 68 comprises an outer end, defined by a portion of cutline 71,said portion may be collinear, coincident or coextensive with the foldline 15 between the first medial panel 14 and the first end panel 16.Fold line 77 is offset, inset from, the outer end of the secondpartition panel 68. Fold line 69 defines an inner end of the secondpartition panel 68. The outer end of the second partition panel 68 andthe fold line 69 define a linear dimension therebetween.

The first partition panel 64 is separated from the first glue panel 72along or by a cut line or severance line 65; the severance line 65 maybe substantially “U” or “C” shaped. The first glue panel 72 can beconsidered to be struck from or defined in, at least in part, the firstpartition panel 64.

The second partition panel 68 is separated from the second glue panel 66by a cut line or severance line 79; the severance line 65 may besubstantially “U” or “C” shaped. The second glue panel 66 can beconsidered to be struck from or defined in, at least in part, the secondpartition panel 68.

The second glue panel 66 is coupled to the second partition panel 68 bya connecting portion 70 (also referred to herein as joint panel 70). Theconnecting portion 70 is hinged to the second glue panel 66 by a hingedconnection in the form of fold line 77.

The connecting portion 70 is hinged to the second partition panel 68 byat least one hinged connection. In the illustrated embodiment, theconnecting portion 70 is hinged to the second partition panel 68 by apair of fold lines 75A, 75B. A first one 75A of the pair of fold lines75A, 75B may be divergently arranged with respect to a second one 75B ofthe pair of fold lines 75A, 75B.

Each end of the cutline 79 may extend beyond a respective one of thepair of old lines 75A, 75B into the connecting portion 70 and mayterminate with a “J’ shaped cut.

The first partition structure P1 comprises a second substantially ‘U’shaped cutline 61 defining a tab or projection 62 of the first medialpanel 14 which is struck from or defined in the first partition panel64. The cutline 61 interrupts the fold line 63 hinging the firstpartition panel 64 to the first medial panel 14.

Each end of the cutline 61 may extend beyond fold line 63 into the firstmedial panel 14, to define cut line extensions 61A, 61B, and mayterminate with a “J” shaped cut.

Each end of the cutline 71 may extend beyond fold line 69 into the firstmedial panel 14, to define cut line extensions 71A, 71B, and mayterminate with a “J” shaped cut.

Each end of the cutline 73 may extend beyond fold line 63 into the firstmedial panel 4, to define cut line extensions 73A, 73B, and mayterminate with a shaped cut.

The fold lines 75A, 75B define, at least in part an end portion orregion of the second partition panel 68, more specifically an endportion or region of the connecting portion 70. The end portion may bedefined between the fold lines 75A, 75B and the portion of the cut line71 which is coextensive with the fold line 15.

The connecting portion 70 may rotate out of the plane of the secondpartition panel 68. In this way a hinge is created between the secondglue panel 66 and the second partition panel 68.

The hinge may be resiliently biased, due to the inherent resilience ofthe substrate.

The hinge may provide resistance to tearing or severance of theconnecting portion 70 from the second partition panel 68. For example,when load forces cause movement of the side walls 18, 24 in an outwarddirection or to allow movement of the joint panel 70 towards a coplanararrangement with the remainder of the glue panel 66.

The blank 10 is configured to be nestable with another similarlyarranged blank. FIG. 2 illustrated a pair of like blanks 10A, 10B in anested configuration.

The first base panel 38A/38C comprises a first shaped free edge E1substantially opposing a hinged edge defined by the hinged connectionbetween the first base panel 38A/38C and the first side panel 18. In theembodiment of FIG. 1 , the first free edge E1 is shown as a chamfered orfilleted edge which is provided by a linear edge which may optionallyextend from a side edge (e.g., the left end edge as viewed in FIG. 1 )of the second portion 38C toward, and optionally all the way to, thestraight distal end edge (i.e. the lower end edge as viewed in FIG. 1 )of the first base panel 38A/38C. Stated differently, the first free edgeE1 is linear along at least a portion thereof (the first chamfered edgeE1 may be linear along at least a portion thereof) and the linearportion is obliquely oriented with respect to the fold line 37A and/orwith respect the fold line 39. The first free edge E1 and the fold line39 define an angle therebetween, which may be an acute angle and may beless than 45°, it may be about 30° or less. Alternatively, the firstfree edge E1 may extend from a side edge (e.g., the left end edge asviewed in FIG. 1 ) of the first portion 38A of the first base panel38A/38C toward, and optionally all the way to, the straight distal endedge (i.e., the lower end edge as viewed in FIG. 1 ) of the first basepanel 38A/38C.

The second base panel 38B comprises a second shaped free edge E2substantially opposing a hinged edge defined by the hinged connectionbetween the second base panel 38B and the second side panel 24. In theembodiment of FIG. 1 , the second free edge E2 is shown as a chamferedor filleted edge which is provided by a linear edge which may optionallyextend from the fold line 37B toward, and optionally all the way to, thestraight distal end edge E3 of the second base panel 38B. Stateddifferently, the second free edge E2 is linear along at least a portionthereof (the second chamfered edge E2 may be linear along at least aportion thereof) and the linear portion is obliquely oriented withrespect to the third fold line 37B. The second free edge E2 and the foldline 37B define an angle therebetween, the angle may be an acute angleand may be less than 45°, it may be about 30° or less. Optionally, thesecond free edge E2, if not the linear portion thereof, may intersectwith the straight distal end edge E3 of the second base panel 38B at apoint or corner which is equidistant from the fold lines 23 and 25 orwhich is closer to the fold line 25 than to the fold line 23.

When the second blank 10B is rotated through 180° with respect to thefirst blank 10A such that the fold lines 37A, 37B of the second blank10B are parallel with the fold lines 37A, 37B of the first blank 10A,the second free edge E2 of the second blank 10B mates with, ortessellates with, the first free edge E1 of the first blank 10A. Thefirst free edge E1 of the second blank 10B mates with, or tessellateswith, the second free edge E2 of the first blank 10A.

The first and second free edges E1, E2 of the first blank 10A share acommon edge or cut with the second and first free edges E2, E1 of thesecond blank 10B, respectively.

The first and second blanks 10A, 10B may also be arranged such that anend edge of the glue flap 12 of one of the first and second blanks 10A,10B is colinear with an end edge of the second medial panel 28 of theother of the first and second blanks 10A, 10B. In other embodiments, theend edges of the blanks 10A, 10B may be offset with respect to eachother.

The second free edge E2 is shaped complementarily to the first free edgeE1.

The blank 10 is foldable to form a package 90 as illustrated in FIG. 5 .

Turning to the construction of the carton 90 as illustrated in FIGS. 3A,3B, and 4A to 4C, the carton 90 can be formed by a series of sequentialfolding operations in a straight-line machine so that the carton 90 isnot required to be rotated or inverted to complete its construction. Thefolding process is not limited to that described below and may bealtered according to particular manufacturing requirements.

Glue G or other adhesive treatment is applied to the first and secondglue panels 72, 66 of the second partition structure P2 provided by thesecond medial panel 28. Alternatively, glue or other adhesive treatmentmay be applied to corresponding regions of the second side panel 24.

Glue G or other adhesive treatment is applied to the second handle panelportion 28A. Alternatively, glue or other adhesive treatment may beapplied to a corresponding region of the second handle reinforcing panel34.

The second medial panel 28 and the fourth end panel 26 are folded, withrespect to the second side panel 24 about fold line 25, as shown in FIG.3B. The second medial panel 28 is brought into face contactingrelationship with a portion of the second side panel 24 and the thirdend panel 22. the fourth end panel 26 is brought into face contactingrelationship with a portion of the second side panel 24.

The second handle panel portion 28A is brought into e contactingrelationship with the second handle reinforcing panel 34.

The first and second glue panels 72, 66 of the second partitionstructure P2 are secured to the second side panel 24 in face contactingrelationship therewith.

The second handle panel portion 28A is secured to the second handlereinforcing panel 34.

Glue G or other adhesive treatment is applied to the first and secondglue panels 72, 66 of the first partition structure P1 provided by thefirst medial panel 14. Alternatively, glue or other adhesive treatmentmay be applied to corresponding regions of the first side panel 18.

Glue or other adhesive treatment is applied to the glue flap 12.Alternatively, glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to acorresponding region of the third end panel 22.

Glue G or other adhesive treatment is applied to the first handle panelportion 14A. Alternatively, glue or other adhesive treatment may beapplied to a corresponding region of the first handle reinforcing panel32.

The first medial panel 14, glue flap 12 and the first end panel 16 arefolded, with respect to the first side panel 18 about fold line 17, asshown in FIG. 4A. The first medial panel 14 is brought into facecontacting relationship with a portion of the first side panel 18 andthe second end panel 20. The first end panel 16 is brought into facecontacting relationship with a portion of the first side panel 18. Theglue flap 12 is brought into face contacting relationship with a portionof the third end panel 22.

The first handle panel portion 14A is brought into face contactingrelationship with the first handle reinforcing panel 32.

The first handle panel portion 14A is secured to the first handlereinforcing panel 32.

The first and second glue panels 72, 66 of the first partition structureP1 are secured to the first side panel 18 in face contactingrelationship therewith.

The glue flap 12 is secured to the third end panel 22 in face contactingrelationship therewith.

The first base panel 38A/38C is folded about fold line 39. The secondportion 38C of first base panel 38A/38C is folded with respect to thefirst portion 38A of first base panel 38A/38C. The second portion 38C offirst base panel 38A/38C is brought into face contacting relationshipwith the first portion 38A of first base panel 38A/38C.

Glue or other adhesive treatment is applied to the second portion 38C offirst base panel 38A/38C, as shown in FIG. 4B. Alternatively, glue orother adhesive treatment may be applied to a corresponding region of thesecond base panel 38B.

Glue or other adhesive treatment is applied to the first medial panel14. Alternatively, glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied tocorresponding regions of the second medial panel 28.

The blank 10 is folded about fold line 21 to bring the first medialpanel 14 into face contacting relationship with the second medial panel28.

The second base panel 38B is brought into face contacting relationshipwith the second portion 38C of first base panel 38A/38C.

The first medial panel 14 is secured to the second medial panel 28.

The second base panel 38B is secured to the second portion 38C of firstbase panel 38A/38C.

In this way a flat collapsed tubular structure is formed as shown inFIG. 4C.

A flat collapsed carrier is thereby formed, as shown in FIG. 4C, theflat collapsed carrier can be readily shipped or distributed in the flatcondition to a plant for erecting and loading with primary productcontainers.

The flat collapsed carrier can be opened into a basket-style articlecarrier 90, as shown in FIG. 5 , by separating the first and second sidepanels 18, 24 to form a tubular structure defined by the outer panels16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26. The outer panels 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26 definean interior chamber. The partition structures P1, P2 are automaticallyerected when the flat collapsed carrier is opened out or erected intothe tubular form.

The first base panel 38A/38C and second base panel 38B form a compositebase panel 38A/38C/38B which is automatically erected when the flatcollapsed carrier is opened out.

Once the carrier 90 is erected, the first and second medial panels 14,28 form a partition, that is disposed medially within the interior ofthe carrier 90 formed by the outer panels 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26. Thepartition divides the interior of the carrier 90 into two separatecompartments on opposing sides of the first and second medial panels 14,28. The partition extends longitudinally, as indicated by the directionarrow L in FIG. 5 , of the carrier 90.

The first partition structure P1 is automatically erected to form afirst plurality of cells in a first compartment disposed on a first sideof the first and second medial panels 14. 28.

The second partition structure P2 is automatically erected to form asecond plurality of cells in a second compartment disposed on a secondside of the first and second medial panels 14, 28.

The first and second partition structures P1, P2 extend transversely, asindicated by the direction arrow T in FIG. 5 , of the carrier 90.

The carrier 90 may be loaded with a group of articles; in the embodimentillustrated in FIG. 5 six articles (not shown) are arranged in a 3×2array.

The group of articles may be loaded through an upper end of the tubularstructure formed by the outer panels 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26.

Referring now to FIGS. 6 to 8 , there are shown additional embodimentsof the present disclosure. In the second, third, and fourth illustratedembodiments like numerals have, where possible, been used to denote likeparts, albeit with the addition of the prefix “100”, “200”, “300” toindicate that these features belong to the second, third, and fourthembodiments respectively. The additional embodiments share many commonfeatures with the first embodiment and therefore only the differencesfrom the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 5 will be described indetail.

FIG. 6 illustrates a second embodiment and shows a blank 110 having aplurality of panels 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128 arrangedin a linear series hinged one to the next by fold lines 113,, 115, 117,119, 121 123, 125, 127 respectively.

The blank 110 comprises a plurality of outer panels 116, 118, 120, 122,124, 126 for forming a tubular structure. The plurality of outer panels116, 118, 120, 122, 124, 126 comprises a first end panel 116. A firstside panel 118 is hingedly connected to the first end panel 116 by ahinged connection in the form of a fold line 117. A second end panel 120is hingedly connected to the first side panel 118 by a hinged connectionin the form of a fold line 119. A third end panel 122 is hingedlyconnected to the second end panel 120 by a hinged connection in the formof a fold line 121. A second side panel 124 is hingedly connected to thethird end panel 122 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line123 and a fourth end panel 126 is hingedly connected to the second sidepanel 124 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 125.

The blank 110 comprises a first base panel 138A/138C hinged to the firstside panel 118 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 137A.The first base panel 138A/138C comprises a fold line 139 extending in alongitudinal direction across the first base panel 138A/138C so as todefine first and second portions 138A, 138C respectively. The blank 110comprises a second base panel 138B hinged to the second side panel 124by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 137B. The first andsecond base panels 138A/138C, 138B are also referred to herein as endclosure flaps since they close an end of the tubular structure formed bythe plurality of outer panels 116, 118, 120, 122, 124, 126.

The first base panel 138A/138C comprises a first shaped free edge E1substantially opposing a hinged edge defined by the hinged connectionbetween the first base panel 138A/138C and the first side panel 118. InFIG. 6 , the first free edge E1 is shown as a cut-away corner with anedge extending between the left end of the first panel 138A/138C and thelower end of the first panel while the second free edge E2 is shown as ashaped edge extending to define a serpentine-shaped left end of thesecond panel 138B. The first free edge E1 is a generally chamfered orfilleted edge which includes a first edge portion along the first freeedge E1. In the embodiment of FIG. 6 , the first free edge E1 is linearalong at least a first edge portion thereof. In other words, the firstedge E1 may comprise at least two linear sections divergently arrangedwith respect to each other. The linear sections are obliquely orientedwith respect to the first fold line 137A and/or with respect the secondfold line 139. The first edge E1 comprises at least two sectionsdivergently arranged with respect to each other. The first edge E1 maybe defined by a combination of one or more linear sections and one ormore curvilinear or arcuate sections. The first edge E1 may optionallyextend from a side edge (e.g., the left end edge as viewed in FIG. 6 )of the second portion 138C toward, and optionally all the way to, thestraight distal end edge (i.e. the lower end edge as viewed in FIG. 6 )of the first base panel 138A/138C. Alternatively, the first free edge E1may extend from a side edge (e.g., the left end edge as viewed in FIG. 6) of the first portion 138A of the first base panel 138A/138C toward,and optionally all the way to, the straight distal end edge (i.e., thelower end edge as viewed in FIG. 6 ) of the first base panel 138A/138C.

The outermost end or extremity of the first base panel 138A/138C may belinear in shape. The linear outermost end of the first base panel138A/138C may be substantially parallel to the fold line 137A and/or thefold line 139.

The second base panel 138B comprises a second shaped free edge E2substantially opposing a hinged edge defined by the hinged connectionbetween the second base panel 138B and the second side panel 124. Thesecond free edge is a generally chamfered or filleted edge whichincludes linear edge portions. In other words, the second free edge E2may comprise at least two linear sections divergently arranged withrespect to each other. The linear sections are obliquely oriented withrespect to the third fold line 137B. The second free edge E2 comprisesat least two sections divergently arranged with respect to each other.The second free edge E2 may be defined by a combination of one or morelinear sections and one or more curvilinear or arcuate sections. Thesecond free edge E2 may optionally extend from the fold line 137Btoward, and optionally all the way to, the straight distal end edge oroutermost end E3 of the second base panel 138B. Optionally, the secondfree edge E2 may include a first linear end section E2 a and a secondopposed linear end section E2 b. Those linear end sections E2 a, E2 bare located at the opposite ends of the two intermediate linear sectionsin the embodiment of FIG. 6 . The first linear end section E2 a emanatesfrom the fold line 137 b while the second linear end section E2 bintersects with the straight distal end edge E3 of the second base panel138B. The intersection of the edges E2 and E3 may be located at a pointwhich is equidistant from the fold lines 123 and 125 or which is closerto the fold line 125 than to the fold line 123.

The outermost end or extremity (or distal end edge) E3 of the secondbase panel 138B may be linear in shape. The linear outermost end ordistal end edge E3 of the second base panel 138B may be substantiallyparallel to the to the fold line 137B.

The second free edge E2 is shaped complementarily to the first free edgeE1. The second free edge E2 is configured to tessellate or nest with thefirst free edge E1.

FIG. 7 illustrates a third embodiment and shows a blank 210 having aplurality of panels 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226, 228 arrangedin a linear series hinged one to the next by fold lines 213, 215, 217,219, 221, 223, 225, 227 respectively.

The blank 210 comprises a plurality of outer panels 216, 218, 220, 222,224, 226 for forming a tubular structure. The plurality of outer panels216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226 comprises a first end panel 216. A firstside panel 218 is hingedly connected to the first end panel 216 by ahinged connection in the form of a fold line 217. A second end panel 220is hingedly connected to the first side panel 218 by a hinged connectionin the form of a fold line 219. A third end panel 222 is hingedlyconnected to the second end panel 220 by a hinged connection in the formof a fold line 221. A second side panel 224 is hingedly connected to thethird end panel 222 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line223 and a fourth end panel 226 is hingedly connected to the second sidepanel 224 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 225.

The blank 210 comprises a first base panel 238A/238C hinged to the firstside panel 218 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 237A.The first base panel 238A/238C comprises a fold line 239 extending in alongitudinal direction across the first base panel 238A/238C so as todefine first and second portions 238A, 238C respectively. The blank 210comprises a second base panel 238B hinged to the second side panel 224by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 237B. The first andsecond base panels 238A/238C, 238B are also referred to herein as endclosure flaps since they close an end of the tubular structure formed bythe plurality of outer panels 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226.

The first base panel 238A/238C comprises a first shaped free edge E1substantially opposing a hinged edge defined by the hinged connectionbetween the first base panel 238A/238C and the first side panel 218. Thefirst free edge E1 is a generally chamfered or filleted edge which mayinclude a non-linear edge. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7 , thenon-linear first free edge E1 is arcuate or curvilinear. The first freeedge E1 is concave so as to bow inwardly; the first free edge E1 definesa recess in the distal portion 238C. The first edge E1 may optionallyextend from a side edge (e.g., the left end edge as viewed in FIG. 7 )of the second portion 238C toward, and optionally all the way to, thestraight distal end edge (i.e. the lower end edge as viewed in FIG. 7 )of the first base panel 238A/238C. Alternatively, the first free edge E1may extend from a side edge (e.g., the left end edge as viewed in FIG. 7) of the first portion 238A of the first base panel 238A/238C toward,and optionally all the way to, the straight distal end edge (i.e., thelower end edge as viewed in FIG. 7 ) of the first base panel 238A/238C.

In the embodiment of FIG. 7 , the outermost end or extremity of thefirst base panel 238A/238C is linear along at least a portion thereof.The outermost or extremity of the first base panel 238A/238C may belinear in shape and may be substantially parallel to the fold line 237Aand/or the fold line 239.

The second base panel 2388 comprises a second shaped free edge E2substantially opposing a hinged edge defined by the hinged connectionbetween the second base panel 238B and the second side panel 224. Thesecond free edge E2 is a generally chamfered or filleted edge which mayinclude a non-linear edge. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7 , thenon-linear second free edge E2 is arcuate or curvilinear. The secondfree edge E2 is convex so as to bow outwardly; the second free edge E2defines a bulged edge which bulges away from the fold line 239. Thesecond free edge E2 may optionally extend from the fold line 237Btoward, and optionally all the way to, the straight distal end edge oroutermost end E3 of the second base panel 2388. Optionally, the secondfree edge E2 may include a linear end section E2 a. The linear endsection E2 a is located at the distal end of the arcuate section of thesecond free edge E2 in the embodiment of FIG. 7 . The linear end sectionE2 a emanates from the fold line 237B. The second free edge E2intersects with the straight distal end edge E3 of the second base panel238B. The intersection of the edges E2 and E3 may be located at a pointor corner which is equidistant from the fold lines 223 and 225 or whichis closer to the fold line 225 than to the fold line 223.

The outermost end or extremity E3 of the second base panel 238B may belinear in shape. The outermost end the second base panel 238B may besubstantially parallel to the to the fold line 237B.

The second free edge E2 is shaped complementarily to the first edge E1.The second edge E2 is configured to tessellate or nest with the firstedge E1.

FIG. 8 illustrates a fourth embodiment and shows a blank 310 having aplurality of panels 312, 314, 316, 318, 320, 322, 324, 326, 328 arrangedin a linear series hinged one to the next by fold lines 333, 315, 317,319, 321, 323, 325, 327 respectively.

The blank 310 comprises a plurality of outer panels 316, 318, 320, 322,324, 326 for forming a tubular structure. The plurality of outer panels316, 318, 320, 322, 324, 326 comprises a first end panel 316. A firstside panel 318 is hingedly connected to the first end panel 316 by ahinged connection in the form of a fold line 317. A second end panel 320is hingedly connected to the first side panel 318 by a hinged connectionin the form of a fold line 319. A third end panel 322 is hingedlyconnected to the second end panel 320 by a hinged connection in the formof a fold line 321. A second side panel 324 is hingedly connected to thethird end panel 322 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line323 and a fourth end panel 326 is hingedly connected to the second sidepanel 324 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 325.

The blank 310 comprises a first base panel 338A/338C hinged to the firstside panel 318 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 337A.The first base panel 338A/338C comprises a fold line 339 extending in alongitudinal direction across the first base panel 338A/338C so as todefine first and second portions 338A, 338C respectively. The blank 310comprises a second base panel 338B hinged to the second side panel 324by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 337B.

The first base panel 338A/338C comprises a first shaped free edge E1substantially opposing a hinged edge defined by the hinged connectionbetween the first base panel 338A/338C and the first side panel 318. Thefirst free edge E1 is a generally chamfered or filleted edge which mayinclude a non-linear edge. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8 , thenon-linear first free edge E1 is arcuate or curvilinear. The first edgeE1 is convex so as to bow outwardly; the first free edge

E1 defines a bulged edge which bows or bulges away from the fold line339. The first free edge E1 may optionally extend from a side edge(e.g., the left end edge as viewed in FIG. 8 ) of the second portion338C toward, and optionally all the way to, the straight distal end edge(i.e. the lower end edge as viewed in FIG. 8 ) of the first base panel338A/338C. Alternatively, the first free edge E1 may extend from a sideedge (e.g., the left end edge as viewed in FIG. 8 ) of the first portion338A of the first base panel 338A/338C toward, and optionally all theway to, the straight distal end edge (i.e., the lower end edge as viewedin FIG. 8 ) of the first base panel 338A/338C.

The second base panel 338B comprises a second shaped free edge E2substantially opposing a hinged edge defined by the hinged connectionbetween the second base panel 338B and the second side panel 324. Thesecond free edge E2 is a generally chamfered or filleted edge which mayinclude a non-linear edge. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8 , thesecond free edge E2 is arcuate or curvilinear. The second free edge E2is concave so as to bow inwardly; the second free edge E2 defines arecess in the second base panel 338B. The second free edge E2 mayoptionally extend from the fold line 3378 toward, and optionally all theway to, the straight distal end edge or outermost end E3 of the secondbase panel 338B. Optionally, the second free edge E2 may include a firstlinear end section E2 a and a second opposite linear end section E2 b.The first and second linear end sections E2 a, E2 b are located at theopposite ends of the arcuate section of the second free edge E2 in theembodiment of FIG. 8 . The first linear end section

E2 a emanates from the fold line 3378 while the second linear section E2b intersects with the straight distal end edge E3 of the second basepanel 338B. The intersection of the edges E2 and E3 may be located at apoint which is equidistant from the fold lines 323 and 325 or which iscloser to the fold line 325 than to the fold line 323.

The second edge E2 is shaped complementarily to the first free edge E1.The second edge E2 is configured to tessellate or nest with the firstfree edge E1.

In other embodiments, the first and second edges E1, E2 may adoptalternative shapes which have the effect of generally removing an outercorner portion of the first and second base panels 38A/38C, 38B;138A/138C, 138B; 238A/238C, 238B; 338A, 338C, 338B. This allows theblanks 10; 110; 210; 310 to be nested in an efficient manner withoutsubstantial offset between ends of the nested blanks. It is desirable,but not essential, for the first and second edges E1, E2 to tessellateor mate along at least a portion thereof such that a single cut separatethe nested blanks.

In certain embodiments, including each of those embodiments describedabove, one of the medial or intermediate panels 14′ may include one ormore score lines 92. In certain embodiments, including each of thoseembodiments described above, one of the medial or intermediate panels14′ may include one or more embossed regions 94. FIG. 10 illustrates anexample of a blank 10′, according to a fifth illustrated embodiment, inwhich one of the medial panels 14′ includes score lines 92 and embossedregion 94. The one or more score lines 92 may be positioned on themedial panel 14′ in a region between apertures A1 and partitionstructure P1. When two or more score lines 92 are provided, the scorelines 92 may extend substantially parallel to each other. In theillustrated embodiment, a plurality of score lines 92 are depictedextending vertically on the medial panel 14′, but it will be apparent toone of ordinary skill in the art that the score lines 92 may extend inany direction and that there may be a lesser or greater number of scorelines 92 than the number depicted in FIG. 10 .

Embossed region 94 may be positioned on the medial panel 14′ in a regionadjacent handle aperture A2. More specifically, embossed region 94 maybe positioned on the medial panel 14′ in a region between aperture A2and the outer edge of the medial panel 14′. At least a portion of theperimeter of the embossed region 94 may be shaped to correspond to theshape or contour of the edge of the medial panel 14′. In the illustratedembodiment, there is a single embossed portion provided as embossedregion 94, but the embossed region 94 may include more than one embossedportion in other implementations. Additionally, it will be apparent toone of ordinary skill in the art that the embossed region 94 may takeany shape and still provide the desired raised portion on the medialpanel 14′.

In the illustrated embodiment, the score lines 92 extend from a pointadjacent the bottom edge of the medial panel 14′ to a point adjacent theembossed region 94. However, the score lines 92 may extend for any givenlength along the region between apertures A1 and partition structure P1.Alternatively, if the embossed region 94 is not provided, the scorelines 92 may extend from a point adjacent the bottom edge of the medialpanel 14′ to a point adjacent the top edge of the medial panel 14′.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 10 , the second medial panel 28; 28′ has a freeedge 98. When the blanks 10; 10′ of FIG. 1 or 10 is erected into acarton 90 (see FIG. 5 ), the free edge 98 may be disposed along theboundary of the first and second areas of the first medial panel 14; 14′wherein the first area is in flat-face contacting arrangement with thesecond medial panel 28; 28′ and the second area is free of contact withthe second medial panel 28; 28′. The one or more score lines 92 may beformed on the second area of the first medial panel 14; 14′. Such asecond area of the first medial panel 14; 14′ is not in face-contactingarrangement with the second medial panel 28; 28′ and therefore isexposed to view as best shown in FIG. 5 . The free edge 98 may extendsubstantially parallel to the one or more score lines 92. The embossedregion 94 mentioned earlier may be located within the second area at theposition above the respective end point or points of the one or morescore lines 92. However, in FIG. 5 , such an embossed region 94 iscovered by, or underlies, the second handle reinforcement panel 34 andthus is not visible in FIG. 5 .

Using the one or more score lines 92 on the first medial panel 14; 14′increases the stiffness of the second area of the first medial panel 14;14′. As a result, potential curling or bending of the second area may bemitigated during the process of erecting the blank into a cartonparticularly at or after the step of gluing the first and second medialpanels 14; 14′, 28; 28′ together.

Referring now to FIGS. 11 to 16 , there are shown further additionalembodiments of the present disclosure. In the sixth, seventh, eighth,ninth, tenth, and eleventh illustrated embodiments like numerals have,where possible, been used to denote like parts, albeit with the additionof the prefix “400”, “500”, “600”, “700”, “800”, “900” to indicate thatthese features belong to the sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, tenth, andeleventh embodiments respectively. The further additional embodimentsshare many common features with the previous embodiments and thereforeonly the differences from the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 10will be described in detail.

FIG. 11 illustrates a sixth embodiment and shows a blank 410. The blank410 comprises a plurality of outer panels 416, 418, 420, 422, 424,426for forming a tubular structure. The plurality of outer panels 416, 418,420, 422, 424, 426 comprises a first end panel 416. A first side panel418 is hingedly connected to the first end panel 416 by a hingedconnection in the form of a fold line 417. A second end panel 420 ishingedly connected to the first side panel 418 by a hinged connection inthe form of a fold line 417. A third end panel 422 is hingedly connectedto the second end panel 420 by a hinged connection in the form of a foldline 421. A second side panel 424 is hingedly connected to the third endpanel 422 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 423 and afourth end panel 426 is hingedly connected to the second side panel 424by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 425.

The blank 410 comprises a first base panel 438A/438C hinged to the firstside panel 418 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 437A.The first base panel 438A/438C comprises a fold line 439 extendingacross the first base panel 438A/438C so as to define first and secondportions 438A, 438C respectively. The blank 410 comprises a second basepanel 438B hinged to the second side panel 424 by a hinged connection inthe form of a fold line 437B. The first and second base panels438A/438C, 438B are also referred to herein as end closure flaps sincethey close an end of the tubular structure formed by the plurality ofouter panels 416, 418, 420, 422, 424, 426.

The first and second base panels 438A/438C, 438B are engageable with oneanother in an overlapping relationship to form a composite base wall438A/438C/438B of a carrier 490 (see FIG. 20 ).

Optionally, the first base panel 438A/438C may comprise at least oneopening AP for receiving a post or pinnacle Pt of a crate Ct (see FIGS.19A, 198 ). The blank 410 may be constructed into a carrier and insertedinto a crate Ct having at least one post, FIGS. 19A, 198 and 20 eachshow a portion of a crate Ct having a plurality of receiving locationsRt for articles B. In FIGS. 19A and 19B some of the article receivinglocations Rt are occupied by an article B and some are vacant. In FIG.20 an article carrier 490 is loaded into the crate Ct such that articlesB in the carrier 490 are received in a respective article receivinglocation Rt. The crate Ct is adapted to receive a plurality of articlecarriers 490 each having a plurality of articles B therein. Theillustrated embodiment is adapted to receive four article carriers 490each of which accommodates six articles B.

The first base panel 438A/438C comprises two openings AP, each forreceiving a respective post or pinnacle Pt. The posts Pt are configuredto be located in a void between a grouping of four articles, as shown inFIG. 19B. Each opening AP is aligned with the void between said group offour articles B.

Each of the openings AP in the first base panel 438A/438C interrupts thefold line 439 hinging the first portion 438A to the second portion 438C.The post openings AP may be square or diamond shaped.

The second base panel 438B may comprise at least one cutaway in the formof a recess RP. In other embodiments, the cutaway may take the form ofan aperture. The at least one cutaway is arranged to be aligned with arespective one of the at least one post openings AP in the first basepanel 438A/438C

The blank 410 may comprise a medial structure including a first medialpanel 414 and a second medial panel 428. Medial panels 414, 428 are alsoreferred to herein as intermediate panels.

The first medial panel 414 is hingedly connected at a first end of theplurality of outer panels 416, 418, 420, 422, 424, 426, to the first endpanel 416, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 415.

The second medial panel 428 is hingedly connected at a second, opposing,end of the plurality of outer panels 416, 418, 420, 422, 424, 426, tothe fourth end panel 426, by a hinged connection in the form of a foldline 427.

The first and second medial panels 414, 428 form a divider (orintermediate wall 414/428) extending longitudinally between the endwalls of an erected carrier.

The first medial panel 414 provides a first handle panel portion 414A.The second medial panel 428 provides a second handle panel portion 428A.Together the first and second medial panels 414, 428 provide a two-plyhandle structure, the second ply reinforcing the first ply.

The first handle panel portion 414A comprises a first handle opening.The first handle opening may be defined at least in part by a firsthandle aperture A2 struck from an upper portion of the first medialpanel 414.

The second handle panel portion 428A comprises a second handle opening.The second handle opening may be defined at least in part by a secondhandle aperture A3 struck from, or defined within, an upper portion ofthe second medial panel 228. The second handle opening is arranged to bedisposed in registry or alignment with the first handle opening in asetup condition.

The blank 410 comprises a securing panel in the form of a medialpartition glue flap 412 hingedly connected to an end of the first medialpanel 414 (said end opposes an opposing end of the first medial panel414 to which the first end panel 416 is hingedly connected, defined byfold line 415) by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 413. Inthe illustrated embodiment, the fold line 413 is continuous oruninterrupted.

The blank 410 may comprise a partition structure P1, P2 which defines orcreates a plurality of cells disposed on one or both sides of thedivider formed by first and second medial panels 414, 428.

The blank 410 comprises a first partition structure P1 that defines orcreates a plurality of cells disposed between the first side panel 418and the first medial panel 414. The first partition structure P1 isdefined in a first partition panel portion 414B provided by a lowerportion of the first medial panel 414.

The blank 410 comprises a second partition structure P2. The secondpartition structure P2 defines or creates a plurality of cells disposedbetween the second side panel 424 and the second medial panel 428. Thesecond partition structure P2 is defined in a second partition panelportion 428B provided by a lower portion of the second medial panel 428.

The first side panel 418 and the second medial panel 414 along with thefirst and second end panels 416, 420 define a tubular structure or firstcompartment on a first side of the medial structure or divider. Thesecond side panel 424, the second medial panel 4428 along with the thirdand fourth end panels 422, 426 and a portion of the first medial panel414 define a tubular structure or second compartment on a second side ofthe medial structure or divider. The first compartment provides aninterior for receiving at least a lower portion of one or more articles.The second compartment provides an interior for receiving at least alower portion of one or more articles.

The first and second partition structures P1, P2 are substantiallysimilar in construction, albeit the second partition structure P2 is amirror image (in blank form) of the first partition structure P1. Inthis way the first and second partition structures P1, P2 are disposedsubstantially in registry with each other when the blank 410 is foldedinto a flat collapsed form. The first and second partition structuresP1, P2 will be described in further detail by reference to the firstpartition structure P1.

The first partition structure P1 comprises a first partition panel 464struck from, or defined in, the first medial panel 414 and hingedlyconnected, at a first or proximal end, thereto by a hinged connection inthe form of a fold line 463.

The first partition structure P1 comprises a second partition panel 468struck from, or defined in, the first medial panel 414 and hingedlyconnected, at first or a proximal end, thereto by a hinged connection inthe form of a fold line 469.

The first and second partition panels 464, 468 are dimensioned toextend, laterally, between the first medial panel 414 and the first sidepanel 418 in a set up condition.

The first partition structure P1 comprises a first glue panel 472 towhich the first and second partition panels 464, 468 are coupled by arespective distal end joint. Each distal end joint is defined by arespective fold line 467, 475. Fold line 467 defines an outer end of thefirst partition panel 464, fold line 463 defines an inner end of thefirst partition panel 464 a linear dimension is defined therebetween.The first partition panel 464 is defined by a pair of first outlines orseverance line 473.

The second partition panel 468 is defined by a second cutline orseverance line 471. The second partition panel 468 comprises an outerend, defined by a portion of fold line 475.

The second cutline 471 extends across fold line 415 and into the firstend panel 416 to define a connecting portion between the secondpartition panel 468 and the first glue panel 472, the connecting portionmay be considered to be part of the first glue panel 472. The connectingportion may be struck from, or defined in, the first end panel 416. Foldline 469 defines an inner end of the second partition panel 468.

The second partition panel 468 is separated from the first glue panel472 along or by a portion of an upper one of the first outlines 473.

Each end of the outlines 473, 471 may extend beyond a respective foldline 463, 469 and may terminate with a “J’ shaped cut.

The blank 410 may comprise at least one post or pinnacle receivingstructure. The at least one post or pinnacle receiving structure isdefined in a panel 414, 428 providing a partition structure P1, P2; thepost pinnacle receiving structure is spaced apart from the partitionstructure P1, P2 by a portion of said panel 414, 428. The at least onepost or pinnacle receiving structure may comprise at least one articleshield GD, GD2. The at least one article shield GD, GD2 may protect orcushion the articles B from a post or pinnacle Pt of the crate Ct and isconfigured to be disposed between said post Pt and the article B.

The at least one article shield GD, GD2 comprises at least one guard orcushioning flap 480, 482, 484. The guard flaps 480, 482, 484 are struckfrom or defined in lower portions of the first or second medial panels414, 428.

When the first and second medial panels 414, 428 are disposed in facecontacting relationship with each other a cushioning flap 480, 482, 484provided by the second medial panel 428 is disposed in face-to-facerelationship with, or aligned with, one of the cushioning flaps 480, 482provided by the first medial panel 414.

The first medial panel 414 comprises two pairs of opposing cushioningflaps 480, 482. The cushioning flaps 480, 482 of each pair are hinged inopposition to each other by respective fold lines 481, 483. The flaps480, 482 of each pair of cushioning flaps 480, 482 are separated fromeach other by a cut line or severance line. Each flap 480, 482 of eachpair of cushioning flaps 480, 482 comprises a lower free edge. The lowerfree edges of each pair of cushioning flaps 480, 482 may define aconcave recess or inverted “V” shaped notch in a lower end of the firstmedial panel 414. The notch or recess may facilitate folding of thecushioning flaps 480, 482 out of the plane of the first medial panel414.

The second medial panel 428 comprises one pair of opposing cushioningflaps 480, 482. The cushioning flaps 480, 482 of are hinged inopposition to each other by respective fold lines 481, 483. Thecushioning flaps 480, 482 are separated from each other by a cut line orseverance line. The cushioning flaps 480, 482 comprise or define concaverecess or inverted “V” shaped notch in a lower end of the second medialpanel 428.

The second medial panel 428 comprises a further cushioning flap 484hinged thereto by a fold line 485 and struck from a marginal sideportion of the second medial panel 428. The further cushioning flap 484is configured to be disposed in face-to-face relationship with, oraligned with, one of the cushioning flaps 480, 482 provided by the firstmedial panel 414.

The at least one pinnacle receiving structure may comprise at least onecutaway or recess R1, R2.

The first medial panel 414 comprises first cutaway or recess R1 in alower end edge thereof, the cushioning flaps 480, 482 are providedadjacent to the first recess R1, the free edges of the cushioning flaps480, 482 define portions of the first recess R1. The cushioning flaps480, 482 when folded out of the plane of the first medial panel 414 maybe considered to define extensions of the first recess R1. The firstrecess R1 and the cushioning flaps 480, 482 are dimensioned so as toaccommodate the posts Pt of the crate Ct.

The second medial panel 428 comprises second recess R2 in a lower endedge thereof, the cushioning flaps 480, 482, 484 are provided adjacentto the second recess R2, the free edges of the cushioning flaps 480,482, 484 define portions of the second recess R2. The cushioning flaps480, 482, 484 when folded out of the plane of the first medial panel 414may be considered to define extensions of the second recess R2. Thesecond recess R2 and the cushioning flaps 480, 482, 484 are dimensionedso as to accommodate the posts Pt of the crate Ct.

In some embodiments, the cushioning flaps 480, 482, 484 substantiallysurround the post Pt, the posts Pt may comprise a substantially diamondshaped cross section, alternative shapes may be employed such as squareor four-pointed star shape. A cushioning flap 480, 482, 484 may befolded out of the panel of the medial panel 414, 428 to which it ishinged when the post Pt is received in the article carrier 490. Acushioning flap 480, 482, 484 may be folded about each of the four sidewalls of the post Pt. In other embodiments, a pair of cushioning flaps480, 482, 484 may be folded about one of the side walls of the post Pt.That is to say two cushioning flaps 480, 482, 484 may be disposedbetween the post Pt and one of the articles B received in the articlecarrier 490.

In the illustrated embodiment, the second medial panel 428 does notextend fully between the opposing ends of the carrier 490, only threecushion flaps 480, 482, 484 are provided by the second medial panel 428,one of the posts Pt received in the carrier 490 is engaged by threecushioning flaps 480, 482, 484 whereas the other of the posts Ptreceived in the carrier is engaged by four cushioning flaps 480, 482.

When the cushion flaps 480, 482, 484 are folded out of the plane of themedial panels 414, 428 openings in the intermediate wall 414/428 of thecarrier 490 accommodate the posts Pt of the crate et as shown in FIG. 20.

The blank 410 may comprise a securing device for engaging the divider orintermediate wall 414/428 of the carrier 490 with the base wall438A/438B/438C.

The first medial panel 414 comprises a first hook H1 defined in a lowerregion of the first medial panel 414 and disposed adjacent to the firstrecess R1. The first hook H1 can be considered to extend into the firstrecess R1. The first hook H1 may be defined by an undercut integral withthe first cutaway or recess R1. Both the first hook H1 and the firstcutaway or recess R1 are defined within the first medial panel 414.

The second medial panel 428 comprises a second hook H2 defined in alower region of the second medial panel 428 and disposed adjacent to thesecond recess R2. The second hook H2 can be considered to extend intothe second recess R2. The second hook H2 may be defined by an undercutintegral with the second cutaway or recess R2. Both the second hook H2and the second cutaway or recess R2 are defined within the second medialpanel 428.

The first and second hooks H1, H2 may be configured to be inface-to-face relationship with each other when the blank 410 is erectedinto a carrier 490, in this way the securing device is a two-plystructure. In other embodiments, the first and second hooks H1, H2 maybe configured to be disposed in opposition to each other in the erectedcarrier so as to engage opposing edges of the base wall.

The fold lines 421, 413 together define a working crease in the carrier490, the carrier 490 may be readily erected from, or flattened into, aflat tubular collapsed tubular structure; the first and second hooks H1,H2 may be disposed opposite said working crease of the carrier 490.

Referring to FIG. 12 , there is shown a plan view of a blank 510according to a seventh embodiment.

The blank 510 is substantially similar in construction to the blank ofFIG. 11 , albeit employing the partition structures P1, P2 of theembodiment of FIG. 1 . The fold line 513 hinging glue flap 512 to firstmedial panel 514 is interrupted by a pair of apertures A1, similar tothe blank 10 of FIG. 1 .

The first medial 514 comprises a first post or pinnacle receiving recessR1 in a lower edge thereof, that is to say an edge facing or adjacent tothe base wall 538A/538B/538C of the carrier 590 shown in FIG. 21

Second medial 528 comprises a second post or pinnacle receiving recessR2 in a lower edge thereof, that is to say an edge facing or adjacent tothe base wall 538A/538B/538C of the carrier 590 shown in FIG. 21 , Thesecond pinnacle receiving recess R2 is configured to be in registry withat least a portion of the first pinnacle receiving recess R1; the secondpinnacle receiving recess R2 corresponds to or with a portion of thefirst pinnacle receiving recess R1.

The blank 510 may comprise a securing device for engaging the divider orintermediate wall 514/528 of the carrier 590 with the base wall538A/538B/538C.

The first medial panel 514 comprises a pair of first hooks H1 defined ina lower region of the first medial panel 514 and disposed adjacent tothe first recess R1. The first hooks H1 can be considered to extend intothe first recess R1, The first hooks H1 may be defined by undercutsintegral with the first cutaway or recess R1. Both the first hooks H1and the first cutaway or recess R1 are defined within the first medialpanel 514. The first hooks H1 of the pair of first hooks H1 are disposedin opposition to each other, and are configured to engage opposing endedges of base wall 538A/538B/538C of the carrier 590.

The second medial panel 528 comprises a second hook H2 defined in alower region of the second medial panel 528 and disposed adjacent to thesecond recess R2. The second hook H2 can be considered to extend intothe second recess R2. The second hook H2 may be defined by an undercutintegral with the second cutaway or recess R2. Both the second hook H2and the second cutaway or recess R2 are defined within the second medialpanel 528. The second hook H2 is arranged to be disposed in registrywith one of the pair of first hooks H1 to form a to ply hook H1/H2. Thetwo-ply hook H1/H2 may comprise in creased strength or rigidity over asingle ply hook H1. The two-ply hook H1/H2 may be arranged to be inopposition to a working crease of the carrier 590 defined by fold lines513/521.

FIG. 20 illustrates an internal view of a carrier 590 formed form theblank 510, the carrier 590 has been inserted into a crate Ct, articles Bhave been removed from the carrier 590 for illustrative purposes.

The intermediate wall 514/528 provides first and second partitionstructures P1, P2 and a receiving structure R1/R2 to accommodate theposts Pt, the receiving structure R1/R2 is spaced a part from thepartition structures P1, P2 by a portion of intermediate wall 514/528.

Referring to FIG. 13 , there is shown a plan view of a blank 610according to an eighth embodiment. The blank 610 is adapted toaccommodate a group of four articles arranged in a 2×2 matrix or array.The partition structures P1, P2 of previous embodiments have beenomitted. The first and second medial panels 614, 628 each comprise arespective post or pinnacle receiving recess R1, R2 in a lower edgethereof, that is to say an edge facing or adjacent to the base panels636A, 638B, 638C in a setup condition.

The blank 610 comprises a securing device for engaging the divider orintermediate wall 614/628 of a carrier formed from the blank 610 withthe base wall 638A/638B/638C.

The first medial panel 614 comprises a pair of first hooks H1 defined ina lower region of the first medial panel 614 and disposed adjacent to afirst recess R1. The first hooks H1 can be considered to extend into thefirst recess R1. The first hooks H1 may be defined by an undercutintegral with the first cutaway or recess R1. The first hooks H1 and thefirst cutaway or recess R1 are defined entirely within the first medialpanel 614.

The second medial panel 828 comprises a second hook H2 defined in alower region of the second medial panel 628 and disposed adjacent to asecond recess R2. The second hook H2 can be considered to extend intothe second recess R2. The second hook H2 may be defined by an undercutintegral with the second cutaway or recess R2. Both the second hook H2and the second cutaway or recess R2 are defined within the second medialpanel 628.

The first and second hooks H1, H2 may be configured to be inface-to-face relationship with each other when the blank 610 is erectedinto a carrier, in this way the securing device is a two-ply structure.In other embodiments the first and second hooks H1, H2 may be configuredto be disposed in opposition to each other in the erected carrier so asto engage opposing edges of the base wall 638A/638B/638C.

The fold lines 621, 613 together define a working crease in the carrier,the carrier may be readily erected from, or flattened into, a flattubular collapsed tubular structure; the first and second hooks H1, H2may be disposed opposite said working crease of the carrier.

Referring to FIG. 14 , there is shown a plan view of a blank 710according to a ninth embodiment. The blank 710 is adapted to accommodatea group of six articles arranged in a 2×3 matrix or array.

The embodiment of FIG. 14 comprises unitary end wall panel 720/722, 726,that is to say the fold lines 21, 421, 521, for example, employed inprevious embodiments have been omitted. The fourth end panel 726 isdimensioned to extend fully between first and second side wail panels718, 724. First end wall panel 716 is arranged to be disposed in facecontacting relationship with a portion of the fourth end panel 726.

A second medial panel 728 is hingedly connected to a lower edge of thefirst medial panel 714 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line729. The hinged connection or fold line 729 is offset with respect tolower edges of the side and end panels 716, 718, 720/722, 724, 726. Thesecond medial panel 728 is configured to be folded into face-to-facerelationship with the first medial panel 714, as indicated in FIG. 14Bby direction arrow D1. The second medial panel 728 is folded about foldline 729, in doing so a recess R is created in a lower edge of theintermediate panel 714/728 formed by the first and second medial panel714, 728.

The hinged connection between first and second medial panel 714, 728 isinterrupted by at least one cutaway in the form of an aperture AP. Theillustrated embodiment comprises a pair of apertures AP. When the secondmedial panel 728 is folded with respect to the first medial panel 714the apertures AP form extensions RP of the recess R, these recessextensions RP are arranged to accommodate a post or pinnacle Pt of acrate Ct, as shown in FIG. 22 .

A portion of the glue panel of the second partition structure P2 may bestruck from material which would otherwise form the medial partitionglue flap 713.

The first base panel 738A comprises at least one first openingconfigured to receive a post or pinnacle Pt of a crate Ct. Theillustrated embodiment comprises a plurality of first post receivingopenings, specifically, but not limited to, two first openings.

The second base panel 738B comprises at least one second openingconfigured to receive a post or pinnacle Pt of a crate Ct. The secondopening is arranged to be in registry with the first opening. Theillustrated embodiment comprises a plurality of second post receivingopenings, specifically, but not limited to, two second openings.

Each of the first openings is defined, at least in part, by a pair offemale tabs FT1, FT2 each hingedly connected to the first base panel738A by a respective fold line F1, F2. Cutaways in the form of aperturesdefine notches N1, N2 in lower or proximal regions—the lower or proximalregion being disposed adjacent to the hinged connection or fold line F1,F2—of the female tabs FT1, FT2. The female tabs FT1, FT2 may besubstantially “T” shaped.

Each of the second openings is defined, at least in part, by a pair ofmale tabs MT1, MT2 each hingedly connected to the second base panel 738Bby a respective fold line F3, F4. Cutaways in the form of aperturesdefine notches N3, N3 in upper or distal regions—the upper or distalregion being disposed adjacent to a free end of the male tabs MT1, MT2,the free end opposes a hinged end defined by the hinged connection orfold line F1, F2—of the female tabs FT1, FT2.

The notches N1, N2 of the female tabs FT1, FT2 receive lug or lobes ofthe male tabs MT1, MT2 to secure the male and female tabs MT1, MT2, FT1,FT2 in a folded condition.

The male and female tabs MT1, MT2, FT1, FT2 form part of a complementarylocking mechanism for locking the first and second base panel 738A, 738Bin an overlapping relationship with each other.

The first base panel 738A comprises at least one handling or machineaperture AM, the first base panel 738A comprises a plurality of machineapertures AM, specifically, but not limited to, three machine aperturesAM. The machine apertures AM are disposed adjacent or proximate to thehinged connection between first base panel 738A and the first side panel718.

The second base panel 738B comprises at least one handling or machineaperture AM, the second base panel 738B comprises a plurality of machineapertures AM, specifically, but not limited to, three machine aperturesAM. The machine apertures AM are disposed adjacent or proximate to thehinged connection between second base panel 738B and the second sidepanel 724.

The machine apertures AM comprise an opening at east a portion of whichis substantially triangular in shape.

The first base panel 738A comprises cutaway in the form of an apertureAD configured to be disposed in registry with one of the plurality ofmachine apertures AM in the second base panel 738B.

The second base panel 738B comprises cutaway in the form of a recess RMconfigured to be disposed in registry with a portion of one of theplurality of machine apertures AM in the first base panel 738A.

The first and second base panels 738A, 738B form a foldable end or baseclosure. The first base panel 738A is hinged to a tubular structureformed from the main panels 716, 718, 720/722, 724, 726 along a firstfold line 737A. The second base panel 738A is hinged to the tubularstructure formed from the main panels 716, 718, 720/722, 724, 726 alonga second fold line 737B.

The first base panel 738A comprises a first free edge EE1 opposinghinged edge defined by the first fold line 737A.

The second base panel 738B comprises a second free edge EE2 opposing ahinged edge defined by the second fold line 737B.

The first base panel 738A comprises at least one firstpanel-interlocking element F and a row of first handling openings AM.The first handling openings AM are located closer to the first fold line737A than the at least one first panel-interlocking element F.

The second base panel 738B comprises at least one secondpanel-interlocking element M. The second base panel 738B comprises a rowof second handling openings AM. The second handling openings AM arelocated closer to the second fold line 737B than the at least one secondpanel-interlocking element M.

The first and second panel-interlocking elements F, M are aligned andengaged together such that the first and second base panels 737A, 737Bare in face-contacting overlapping arrangement.

The first base panel 737A has a first side edge SE1 extending betweenthe first fold line 737A and the first free edge EE1.

The second base panel 738B has a second side edge SE2 extending betweenthe second fold line 737B and the second free edge EE2.

At least a part SE1 a of the first side edge SE1 is configuredcomplementary to at least a part SE2 a of the second free edge SE2. Atleast a part SE2 b of the second side edge SE2 is disposed between theat least one first panel-interlocking element F and one of the firsthandling openings AM such that no part of the second side edge SE2overlaps any one of the at least one first panel-interlocking element Fand the first handling openings AM.

At least part of the second free edge EE2 is disposed between the firstfold line 737A and a first notional line X1-X1. First notional lineX1-X1 is defined by a linear line in tangential contact with a forwardor leading edge of each of the first handling openings AM. Firstnotional line X1-X1 extends parallel to the first fold line 737A.

At least part of the first free edge EE1 is disposed between second foldline 737B and a second notional line X2-X2. Second notional line X2-X2is defined by a linear line in tangential contact with a forward orleading edge of each of the second handling openings AM. Second notionalline X2-X2 extends parallel to the second fold line 737B.

At least a part SE1 b of the first side edge SE1 is disposed between theat least one second panel-interlocking element M and one of secondhandling openings AM such that no part of the first side edge SE1overlaps any one of the at least one second panel-interlocking element Mand the second handling openings AM.

Referring to FIG. 15 , there is shown a plan view of a blank 810according to a tenth embodiment. The embodiment of FIG. 15 can beerected to form a carrier 890 as shown in FIG. 18 . The blank 810 issubstantially similar in construction to the blank 710 of FIG. 14 ,albeit the first base panel 838A and second base panel 838B have adifferent shape. The first base panel 838A has been shortened a recessRM replaces the aperture AD of the ninth embodiment. The recess RMserves the same purpose as the aperture AD providing access through thefirst base panel 838A for a machine tool (not shown) to enable the firstand second base panel 838A, 838B to be aligned with respect to eachother such that the panel locking arrangement M/F can be deployed tosecure the first and second base panel 838A, 838B to each other.

Referring to FIG. 16 , there is shown a plan view of a blank 910according to an eleventh embodiment. The blank 910 forms a carrier (notshown) having a plurality of main panels 916, 918, 920, 922, 924, 926forming a tubular structure. The tubular structure is closed at one endby an end closure or base wall formed from a first base panel 938A/938Cand a second base panel 938B. An intermediate wall 914/928 is providedby a pair of medial panels 914, 928. The intermediate wall 914/928provides a pair of partition structures for dividing chamber on eachside of the intermediate wall 914/928 into a plurality of cells.

The blank 910 is arranged substantially as two rows or series of panels,previous embodiments were arranged substantially as single linearseries.

A first row of panels comprises a first riser panel 912 is hingedlyconnected to a first end panel 916 by a hinged connection in the form ofa fold line 913. A first side panel 918 is hingedly connected to thefirst end panel 916 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line917. A second end panel 920 is hingedly connected to the first sidepanel 918 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 919. A firstmedial panel 914 is hingedly connected to the second end panel 920 by ahinged connection in the form of a fold line 927A.

A second row of panels comprises a second riser panel 930 is hingedlyconnected to a third end panel 922 by a hinged connection in the form ofa fold line 921. A second side panel 924 is hingedly connected to thethird end panel 922 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line923. A fourth end panel 926 is hingedly connected to the second sidepanel 924 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 925. Asecond medial panel 928 is hingedly connected to the fourth end panel922 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 9927B.

The first row of panels is hingedly connected to the second row ofpanels; the first riser panel 912 is hingedly connected to the secondriser panel 930 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 915A.The first medial panel 914 is hingedly connected to the second medialpanel 928 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 915B. Foldline 915B be may be interrupted by one or more apertures to reduce itsresistance to folding.

A pair of handle reinforcing panels 932, 934 is provided between thefirst and second side panels 918, 924. A first handle reinforcing panel932 is hingedly connected to the first medial panel 914 by a hingedconnection in the form of a fold line. A second handle reinforcing panel934 is hingedly connected to the second medial panel 928 by a hingedconnection in the form of a fold line. The first handle reinforcingpanel 932 is hingedly connected to the second handle reinforcing panel934 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 915C. Fold line915C is collinear with fold line 915A and fold line 915B.

The blank 910 comprises a first base panel 938A/938C hinged to the firstside panel 918 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 937A.The first base panel 938A/938C comprises a fold line 939 extending in alongitudinal direction across the first base panel 938A/938C so as todefine first and second portions 938A, 938C respectively. The first andsecond portions 938A, 938C are also referred to herein as proximal anddistal portions respectively. The blank 910 comprises a second basepanel 938B hinged to the second side panel 924 by a hinged connection inthe form of a fold line 937B. The first and second base panels938A/938C, 938B are also referred to herein as end closure flaps sincethey close an end of the tubular structure formed by the plurality ofouter panels 916, 918, 920, 922, 924, 926.

The first and second base panels 938A/938C, 938B are engageable with oneanother in an overlapping relationship to form a composite base wall938A/938C/938B of the carrier.

Optionally, the first base panel 938A/938C may comprise at least onecutaway struck from an end edge. The cutaway is engageable with a hookor catch H1, H2 provided by at least one of the panels 914, 928.

The blank 910 comprises a first and second partition structure P1, P2.The first partition structure P1 defines or creates a plurality of cellsdisposed between the first side panel 918 and the first medial panel914. The first partition structure P1 is defined in a first partitionpanel portion provided by a lower portion of the first medial panel 914.The blank 910 comprises a second partition structure P2. The secondpartition structure P2 defines or creates a plurality of cells disposedbetween the second side panel 924 and the second medial panel 428 Thesecond partition structure P2 is defined in a second partition panelportion provided by a lower portion of the second medial panel 428.

The first and second partition structures P1, P2 are substantiallysimilar in construction, albeit the second partition structure P2 is amirror image (in blank form) of the first partition structure P1. Inthis way the first and second partition structures P1, P2 are disposedsubstantially in registry with each other when the blank 910 is foldedinto a flat collapsed form. The first and second partition structuresP1, P2 will be described in further detail by reference to the firstpartition structure P1.

The first partition structure P1 comprises a first partition panel 964struck from, or defined in, the first medial panel 914 and hingedlyconnected, at a first or proximal end, thereto by a hinged connection inthe form of a fold line.

The first partition structure P1 comprises a second partition panel 968struck from, or defined in, the first medial panel 914 and hingedlyconnected, at first or a proximal end, thereto by a hinged connection inthe form of a fold line.

The first and second partition panels 964, 968 are dimensioned toextend, laterally, between the first medial panel 914 and the first sidepanel 918 in a set up condition.

The first partition structure P1 comprises a first glue panel 972 towhich the first and second partition panels 964, 968 are coupled by arespective distal end joint. Each distal end joint is defined by arespective fold line.

The blank 910 may comprise at least one post or pinnacle receivingstructure. The at least one post or pinnacle receiving structure isdefined in a panel 914, 928 providing a partition structure P1, P2; thepost pinnacle receiving structure is disposed adjacent to the respectivepartition structure P1, P2 in said panel 914, 928. The at least one postor pinnacle receiving structure may comprise at least one article guardshield GD, GD2. The at least one article shield GD may protect orcushion the articles B from a post or pinnacle Pt of the crate Ct and isconfigured to be disposed between said post Pt and the article B.

The at least one article shield GD comprises at least one guard flap980, 982. The guard flaps 980, 982 are struck from or defined in lowerportions of one of the first and second medial panels 914, 928.

When the first and second medial panels 914, 928 are disposed in facecontacting relationship with each other a cushioning flap 980, 982provided by the second medial panel 928 is disposed in face-to-facerelationship with, or aligned with, one of the cushioning flaps 980, 982provided by the first medial panel 914.

The first medial panel 914 comprises a pair of opposing cushioning flaps980, 982. The cushioning flaps 980, 982 are hinged in opposition to eachother by respective fold lines 981, 983. The flaps 980, 982 of each pairof cushioning flaps 980, 982 are separated from each other by a cut lineor severance line. Each flap 980, 982 of each pair of cushioning flaps980, 982 comprises a lower free edge. The lower free edges of each pairof cushioning flaps 980, 982 may define a concave recess or invertedshaped notch in a lower end of the first medial panel 914. The notch orrecess may facilitate folding of the cushioning flaps 980, 982 out ofthe plane of the first medial panel 914.

The second medial panel 928 comprises a pair of opposing cushioningflaps 980, 982 arranged similarly to those in the first medial panel 914and will not be described in further detail.

The at least one pinnacle receiving structure may comprise at least onecutaway or recess R1, R2.

The first medial panel 914 comprises a first cutaway or recess R1 in alower end edge thereof, the cushioning flaps 980, 982 are providedadjacent to the first recess R1, the free edges of the cushioning flaps980, 982 define portions of the first recess R1. The cushioning flaps980, 982 when folded out of the plane of the first medial panel 914 maybe considered to define extensions of the first recess R1. The firstrecess R1 and the cushioning flaps 980, 982 are dimensioned so as toaccommodate the posts Pt of the crate Ct.

The second medial panel 928 comprises a second cutaway or recess R2 in alower end edge thereof, the second cutaway or recess R2 is arrangedsimilarly to the first cutaway or recess R1 in the first medial panel914 and will not be described in further detail.

The first and second recesses R1, R2 and the cushioning flaps 980, 982,when folded out of the plane of the intermediate wall 914/928 form anopening between the intermediate wall 914/928 and the base wall938A/938B/938C sufficient to accommodate a first post or pinnacle Pt ofa crate Ct.

The blank 910 may comprise a securing device for engaging the divider orintermediate wall 914/928 of the carrier with the base wall938A/938B/938C.

The first medial panel 914 comprises a first hook H1 defined in a lowerregion of the first medial panel 914 and disposed adjacent to the firstrecess R1. The first hook H1 can be considered to extend into the firstrecess R1. The first hook H1 may be defined by an undercut integral withthe first cutaway or recess R1. Both the first hook H1 and the firstcutaway or recess R1 are defined within the first medial panel 914.

The second medial panel 928 comprises a second hook H2 defined in alower region of the second medial panel 928 and disposed adjacent to thesecond recess R2. The second hook H2 can be considered to extend intothe second recess R2. The second hook H2 may be defined by an undercutintegral with the second cutaway or recess R2. Both the second hook H2and the second cutaway or recess R2 are defined within the second medialpanel 928.

The first and second hooks H1, H2 may be configured to be inface-to-face relationship with each other when the blank 910 is erectedinto a carrier, in this way the securing device is a two-ply structure.In other embodiments, the first and second hooks H1, H2 may beconfigured to be disposed in opposition to each other in the erectedcarrier so as to engage opposing edges of the base wall.

The first and second partition structures P1, P2 when erected in acarrier extend the recesses R1, R2 in the first and second medial panel914, 928. This extension of the recesses R1, R2 may provide an openingbetween the intermediate wall 914/928 and the base wall 938A/938B/938Csufficient to accommodate a second post or pinnacle Pt of a crate Ct inaddition to a first post or pinnacle Pt accommodated by the cushioningflaps 980, 982.

The present disclosure provides a collapsible article carrier 90comprising a collapsible tubular structure 16/18/20/22/24/26;116/118/120/122/124/126; 216/218/220/222/224/226;316/318/320-/322/324/326 and a foldable end closure, The end closurecomprises a first panel 38A/38C; 138A/138C; 238A/238C; 338A, 338C and asecond panel 38B; 138B: 238B; 338B. The first panel 38A/38C; 138A/138C;238A/238C; 338A, 338C comprises a proximal portion 38A; 138A; 238A; 338Ahinged to the tubular structure along a first fold line 37A; 137A; 237A;337A and a distal portion 38C; 138C; 238C; 338C hinged to the proximalportion 38A; 138A; 238A; 338A along a second fold line 39; 139; 239;339. The second panel 38B; 1388: 238B; 338B is hinged to the tubularstructure 16/18/20/22/24/26; 116/118/120/122/124/126;216/218/220/222/224/226; 316/-318/320/322/324/326 along third fold line378; 137B; 237B; 337B. The second panel 388; 138B; 238B; 338B is securedto the distal portion 38C; 138C; 238C; 338C in face-contactingarrangement. The first 37A; 137A; 237A; 337A, second 39; 139; 239; 339,third 378; 137B; 2378; 337B fold lines are parallel to one another. Thedistal portion 38C; 138C; 238C; 338C has a first free edge E1non-parallel to the first fold line 37A; 137A; 237A; 337A. The secondpanel 38B; 138B: 238B; 338B has a second free edge E2 which isconfigured identical, or complementary, at least in part to at leastpart of the first free edge E1. As illustrated in FIG. 4C and FIG. 9 ,the second free edge E2 is disposed offset from the first free edge E1such that the first and second free edges E1, E2 extend alongside oneanother.

The first and second panels 38A/38C, 38B; 138A/138C, 138A/238C, 238B;338A, 338C, 338B may be bottom panels of the carrier 90.

A plurality of primary panels provide wails of the tubular structure anddefine an interior of the carrier, the walls include first and secondopposed side walls 18, 24; 118, 124; 218, 224; 318, 324 and first andsecond opposed end walls 16/26, 20/22; 116/126, 120/122; 216/226,220/222; 316/326, 320/322.

The first and second panels 38A/38C, 38B; 138A/138C, 138B; 238A/238C,238B; 338A, 338C, 338B are hinged to a respective one of the first andsecond opposed side walls 18, 24, 118, 124, 218, 224, 318, 324.

In the set-up form of the carrier 90, or when the blank 10; 10′; 110;210; 310 is erected to form the carrier 90, the second free edge E2 isoffset from the first free edge E1 in the direction along any one of thefirst fold line 37A, 137A, 237A, 337A, the second fold line 39, 139,239, 339 and the third fold line 37B, 137B, 237B, 337B. Such a directionis illustrated, for example, in FIG. 5 to be the longitudinal directionL of the carrier 90, the longitudinal direction L extending between thefirst and second opposed end walls 16/26, 20/22; 116/126, 120/122;216/226, 220/222; 316/326, 320/322.

The first and second opposed end walls 16/26, 20/22; 116/126, 120/122;216/226, 220/222; 316/326, 320/322 each comprise a hinge to facilitatefolding of the collapsible tubular structure 90 between a stowedcondition and an erected condition.

The first panel 38A/38C; 138A/138C; 238A/238C; 338A, 338C and the secondpanel 38B; 138B: 238B; 338B may form a composite base panel of thecarrier 90.

Each of the first and second edges E1, E2 may comprise at least onestraight segment extending obliquely with respect to the first fold line37A; 137A; 237A; 337A.

The at least one straight segment may comprise two or more straight edgesegments each angled with respect to an adjacent one of the straightsegments.

Each of the first and second edges E1, E2 may further comprise at leastone curved segment.

Each of the first and second edges E1, E2 comprises a shaped orcontoured edge. The shaped edge or contoured may comprise at least onecurved segment. The shaped or contoured edge may have a serpentineshape.

The collapsible article carrier 90 comprises a medial partition wall14/28; 114/128; 214/228;

314/328 interposed parallel between first and second side panels 18, 24;118, 124; 218, 224; 318, 324 to divide the interior into two or morearticle-receiving cells.

The present disclosure provides a blank 10; 110; 210; 310; 410; 510;710; 810 for forming an article carrier 90; 490; 590; 790; 890. Theblank 10; 110; 210; 310; 410; 510; 710; 810 comprises a plurality ofprimary panels 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26; 116, 118, 120, 122, 124, 126;216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226; 316, 318, 320, 322, 324, 326; 416, 418,420, 422, 424, 426; 516, 518, 520, 522, 524, 526; 716, 718, 720, 722,724, 726; 816, 818, 820, 822, 824, 826; for forming walls of a tubularstructure defining an interior chamber. A first panel 38A/38C;138A/138C; 238A/238C; 338A, 338C; 438A/438C; 538A/538C; 738A; 838A and asecond panel 38B; 1386: 238B; 338B; 438B; 538A; 738B; 838B form an endclosure which may be foldable. The first panel 38A/38C; 138A/138C;238A/238C; 338A, 338C, 438A/438C; 538A/538C; 738A; 838A comprises aproximal portion 38A; 138A; 238A; 338A and a distal portion 380; 138C;238C; 338C; 438C; 538C. The proximal portion 38A; 138A; 238A; 338A ishinged, along a first fold line 37A; 137A; 237A; 337A, 437A, 537A to oneof the panels forming a wall of the tubular structure. The distalportion 38C; 138C; 238C; 338C; 438C; 538C may be hinged to the proximalportion along a second fold line 39; 139; 239; 339; 439; 539. The secondpanel 38B; 138B; 238B; 338B is hinged, along third fold line 37B; 137B;237B; 337B, to a second one of the panels forming an opposing wall ofthe tubular structure. The second panel 38B; 138B; 238B: 338B: 438B;538A; 738B; 838B is configured to be securable the first panel 38A/38C;138A/138C; 238A/238C; 338A, 338C; 438A/438C, 538A/538C; 738A; 838A(optionally to the distal portion 38C; 138C; 238C; 338C; 438C; 538C) inface-contacting arrangement and in at least partial overlappingrelationship therewith. The first 37A; 137A; 237A; 337A; 437A; 537A andthird 37B; 1378; 237B; 337B; 437B; 537B fold lines are parallel to oneanother. The second fold line 39; 139; 239; 339, 439; 539 may beparallel to the first 37A; 137A; 237A; 337A; 437A; 537A and third 37B;137B; 237B; 337B; 437B; 537B fold lines. The first panel 38A/38C;138A/138C; 238A/238C; 338A, 338C; 438A/438C; 538A/538C; 738A; 838A, orthe distal portion 380; 138C; 238C; 338C; 438C; 538C, has a first freeedge E1 non-parallel or oblique to the first fold line 37A; 137A; 237A;337A; 437A; 537A; 737A; 837A. The second panel 38B; 138B; 238B; 338B;437B; 537B; 737B, 837B has a second free edge E2 at least part of whichis shaped complementary, or identical, to at least part of the firstfree edge E1. The second free edge E2 is disposed offset from the firstfree edge E1.

The second free edge E2 may be offset from the first free edge E1 in adirection along the first fold line 37A, 137A, 237A, 337A which extendsin a longitudinal direction x of the blank 10; 110; 210; 310 as well asin a transverse direction y perpendicular to the first fold line 37A,137A, 237A, 337A. The directions x and y are shown in FIG. 1 wherein thefirst free edge E1 is shown as a chamfered corner extending between theleft end of the first panel 38A/38C and the lower end of the first panelwhile the second free edge E2 is shown as an edge obliquely extending todefine the left end of the second panel 38B.

The second free edge E2 is arranged to extend alongside the first freeedge E1 in set up carrier 90 when in both an erected condition and astowed condition.

The first panel 38A/38C; 138A/138C; 238A/238C; 338A, 338C; 438A/438C;538A/538C; 738A; 838A may comprise at least one post receiving openingAP or recess RM. The second panel 38B; 138B: 238B; 338B; 4388; 538A;738B; 838B may comprise at least one post receiving opening AP or recessRM. The at least one post receiving opening AP may interrupt the secondfold line 39; 139; 239; 339; 439; 539.

The present disclosure provides an article carrier 790; 890 and a blank710; 810 for forming the same; wherein the article carrier 790; 890comprises a collapsible tubular structure and an end closure. The endclosure comprises a first panel 738A; 838A and a second panel 738B;838B. The first panel 738A; 838A is hinged to the tubular structurealong a first fold line 737A; 837A and comprises an opposing first freeedge EE1. The first panel 738A; 838A comprises at least one firstpanel-interlocking element F and a row of first handling openings AM.The row of first handling openings AM is located closer to the firstfold line 737A; 837A than the at least one first panel-interlockingelement F. The second panel 738B; 838B is hinged to the tubularstructure along second fold line 737B; 837B and comprises an opposingsecond free edge EE2. The second panel 738B; 838B comprises at least onesecond panel-interlocking element M. The first and secondpanel-interlocking elements F, M are aligned and engaged together suchthat the first and second panels 738A, 738B; 838A, 838B are inface-contacting overlapping arrangement. The first panel 738A; 838A hasa first side edge SE1 extending between the first fold line 737A; 837Aand the first free edge EE1. The second panel 738B; 838B has a secondside edge SE2 extending between the second fold line 737B; 837B and thesecond free edge EE2. At least a part SE1 a of the first side edge SE1is configured complementary to at least a part SE2 a of the second freeedge SE2 (see FIG. 14C). At least a part SE2 b of the second side edgeSE2 is disposed between the at least one first panel-interlockingelement F and one of the first handling openings AM such that no part ofthe second side edge SE2 overlaps any one of the at least one firstpanel-interlocking element F and the first handling openings AM.

At least part of the second free edge SE2 is disposed between the firstfold line 737A; 837A and a first notional line X1-X1.

At least part of the first free edge EE1 is disposed between second foldline 737B; 837B and a second notional line X2-X2.

The second panel 738B; 838B comprises a row of second handling openingsAM. The row of second handling openings AM is located closer to thesecond fold line 737B; 837B than the at least one secondpanel-interlocking element M.

At least a part SE1 b of the first side edge SE1 is disposed between theat least one second panel-interlocking element M and one of secondhandling openings AM such that no part of the first side edge SE1overlaps any one of the at least one second panel-interlocking element Mand the second handling openings AM.

The present disclosure also provides an article carrier 490 and a blank410; 910 for forming the same; wherein the article carrier 490 comprisesa plurality of primary panels 416, 418, 420, 422, 424, 426, 916, 918,920, 922, 924, 926 forming a tubular structure defining an interior ofthe article carrier 490. The carrier 490 may comprise an intermediatewall 414/428; 914/928 dividing the interior into two chambers. Theintermediate wall 414/428; 914/928 comprises an article guard GDcomprising at least one flap 480, 482, 484; 980, 982 configured to bedisposed between an article B and a post Pt of a tertiary package orcrate Ct receivable in the carrier 490. The at least one flap 480, 482,484; 980, 982 defines at least in part an opening in the intermediatewall 414/428; 914/928 for receiving said crate post Pt.

The present disclosure also provides an article carrier 490; 590 forpackaging articles B and a blank 410; 510; 610; 910 for forming thesame. The article carrier 490; 590 comprises a plurality of primarypanels 416, 418, 420, 422, 424, 426; 516, 518, 520, 522, 524, 526: 616,618, 620, 622, 624, 626; 916, 918, 920, 922, 924, 926 forming a tubularstructure defining an interior of the article carrier 490; 590. Thecarrier 490; 590 comprises an end wall 438A/438B/438C; 538A/538B/538C;638A/638B/638C; 938A/938B/938C closing an end of the tubular structure.The carrier 490; 590 may comprise an intermediate wall 414/428; 514/528;614/628; 914/928 dividing the interior into a pair of chambers. Theintermediate wall 414/428: 514/528; 614/628; 914/928 comprises a postreceiving opening and a securing device for retaining the carrier 490;590 in an erected condition. The post receiving opening is arranged toaccommodate at least one post Pt of a tertiary package or crate Ctreceivable in the carrier 490; 590 through the end wall 438A/438B/438C;538A/538B/538C; 638A/638B/638C; 938A/938B/938C. The securing devicecomprises a hook or catch defined at least in part by a portion of postreceiving opening. The securing device and the post receiving openingbeing defined in entirety within the intermediate wall 414/428; 514/528;614/628; 914/928 or a panel 414, 428; 514, 528; 614, 628; 914, 928forming the intermediate wall 414/428; 514/528; 614/628; 914/928.

The present disclosure also provides an article carrier 490; 590 and ablank 410; 510; 610; 910 for forming the same; wherein the articlecarrier 490; 590 comprises a plurality of primary panels 416, 418, 420,422, 424, 426; 516, 518, 520, 522, 524, 526; 616, 618, 620, 622, 624,626; 916, 918, 920, 922, 924, 926 forming a tubular structure definingan interior of the article carrier 490; 590. The carrier 490; 590 maycomprise an intermediate wall 414/428; 514/528; 614/628; 914/928dividing the interior into a pair of chambers. The intermediate wall414/428; 514/528; 614/628; 914/928 comprises a post receiving openingand at least one partition structure P1, P2. The at least one partitionstructure P1, P2 separates one of the pair of chambers into two or morearticle-receiving cells. The post receiving opening is arranged toaccommodate at least one post Pt of a tertiary package or crate Ctreceivable in the carrier 490; 590. The post receiving opening isdisposed between the at least one partition structure P1, P2 and an endwall 438A/438B/438C; 538A/538B/538C; 638A/6386/638C; 938A/938B/938Cclosing an end of the tubular structure and is spaced apart from the atleast one partition structure P1, P2 by a portion of the intermediatewall 414/428; 514/528; 614/628; 914/928. The end wall 438A/438B/438C;538A/538B/538C; 638A/638B/638C; 938A/938B/938C comprises an opening forreceiving said at least one crate post Pt.

The article carrier 490; 590 forms a packaging system with a pluralityof articles B and a tertiary package Ct. The articles B are disposed inthe interior of the carrier 490; 590 and the carrier 490; 590 isdisposed in the tertiary package Ct. The crate post Pt is received inthe interior of the carrier 490; 590 and is disposed in a void definedat least in part by two or more articles B. The portion of theintermediate wall 414/428; 514/528; 614/628; 914/928 between the atleast one partition structure P1, P2 and the post receiving opening isdisposed over said at least one crate post Pt.

The present disclosure also provides an article carrier 790; 890 and ablank 710; 810 for forming the same; wherein the article carrier 790;890 comprises a plurality of primary panels 716, 718, 720, 722, 724,726; 816, 818, 820, 822, 824, 826 forming a tubular structure definingan interior of the article carrier 790; 890. The carrier 790; 890comprises an end wall 737A/737B; 837A/837B closing an end of the tubularstructure. The carrier 790; 890 comprise an intermediate wall 414/428;514/528; 614/628; 914/928 dividing the interior into a pair of chambers.The intermediate wall 414/428; 514/528; 614/628; 914/928 comprises afirst medial panel 414; 514; 614; 914 and a second medial panel 428;528; 628; 928, the second medial panel 428; 528; 628; 928 is hingedlyconnected to a first or lower edge of the first medial panel 414; 514;614; 914 by a hinged connection. The first or lower edge of the firstmedial panel 414; 514; 614; 914 faces the end wall 737A/737B; 837A/837B.The first medial panel 414; 514; 614; 914 and a second medial panel 428;528; 628; 928 comprise at least one cutaway or aperture AP interruptingthe hinged connection and defining a recess in each of first and secondmedial panels 414, 428; 514,528; 614, 628; 914, 928. The recess in eachof first and second medial panels 414, 428; 514,528; 614, 628; 914, 928forms a post receiving opening between intermediate wall 414/428;514/528; 614/628; 914/928 and the end wall 737A/737B; 837A/837B forreceiving at least one post Pt of a tertiary package or crate Ct.

The present disclosure also provides an article carrier 90 comprising aplurality of primary panels 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26; 116, 118, 120, 122,124, 126; 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226; 316, 318, 320, 322, 324, 326forming a tubular structure defining an interior of the article carrier90. The carrier 90 may comprise a partition structure P1, P2 dividingthe interior into two or more article-receiving cells. The partitionstructure P1, P2 may be formed from, or defined in, a first panel 14, 28and comprises; a lateral partition panel 64, 68, hingedly connected at aproximal end thereof to the first panel 14, 28 by a fold line 63, 69,and a glue panel 72, 66 hingedly connected to the lateral partitionpanel 64, 68 by a fold line 67, 77.

Another advantage of the present disclosure is that the partitionstructure comprises a reduced footprint, that is to say, it occupiesless area of the blank. The partition structure may also comprise areduced linear dimension, in the longitudinal direction x. In this waythe partition structure may be struck from within the first or secondmedial panel.

The partition structure may extend up to an edge of the first or secondmedial panel without extending beyond the edge of the first or secondmedial panel. In some embodiments, this has the benefit that a paneladjacent to the first or second medial panel and hinged thereto is notinterrupted or broken by the first or second partition structure, thismay have structural benefits or aesthetic benefits or both.

Additionally, or alternatively, this may be beneficial when constructingthe blank into a carrier, in particular into the flat collapsed carrier,such as that illustrated in FIG. 4C. Construction of the blank into thecarrier may be more readily automated. The reduction in size of thepartition structure may reduce the likelihood of the blank collidingwith, catching upon, or otherwise unintentionally engaging with a partof a packaging machine, thus avoiding or mitigating against the blankbecoming entangled, trapped, misfed or misaligned during the assemblyprocess.

It can be appreciated that various changes may be made within the scopeof the present invention. For example, the size and shape of the panelsand apertures may be adjusted to accommodate articles of differing sizeor shape. The present invention is not limited to cartons of the basketcarrier style, the invention may be employed with other carton stylessuch as, but not limited to, open top crates, lidded or closed topcrates and fully enclosed cartons.

In one embodiment the medial panels may omitted, the partition structuremay be formed from a first one of a pair of opposing wall panels or maybe omitted.

It will be recognised that as used herein, directional references suchas “top”, “bottom”, “base”, “front”, “back”, “end”, “side”, “inner”,“outer”, “upper” and “lower” do not necessarily limit the respectivepanels to such orientation, but may merely serve to distinguish thesepanels from one another.

As used herein, the terms “hinged connection” and “fold line” refer toall manner of lines that define hinge features of the blank, facilitatefolding portions of the blank with respect to one another, or otherwiseindicate optimal panel folding locations for the blank. Any reference to“hinged connection” should not be construed as necessarily referring toa single fold line only; indeed, a hinged connection can be formed fromtwo or more fold lines wherein each of the two or more fold lines may beeither straight/linear or curved/curvilinear in shape. When linear foldlines form a hinged connection, they may be disposed parallel with eachother or be slightly angled with respect to each other. When curvilinearfold lines form a hinged connection, they may intersect each other todefine a shaped panel within the area surrounded by the curvilinear foldlines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may comprise a pairof arched or arcuate fold lines intersecting at two points such thatthey define an elliptical panel therebetween. A hinged connection may beformed from one or more linear fold lines and one or more curvilinearfold lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may comprise acombination of a linear fold line and an arched or arcuate fold linewhich intersect at two points such that they define a half moon-shapedpanel therebetween.

As used herein, the term “fold line” may refer to one of the following:a scored line, an embossed line, a debossed line, a line ofperforations, a line of short slits, a line of half-cuts, a singlehalf-cut, an interrupted cutline, a line of aligned slits, a line ofscores and any combination of the aforesaid options.

It should be understood that hinged connections and fold lines can eachinclude elements that are formed in the substrate of the blank includingperforations, a line of perforations, a line of short slits, a line ofhalf-cuts, a single half-cut, a cutline, an interrupted cutline, slits,scores, any combination thereof, and the like. The elements can bedimensioned and arranged to provide the desired functionality. Forexample, a line of perforations can be dimensioned or designed withdegrees of weakness to define a fold line or a severance line or both.The line of perforations can be designed to facilitate folding andresist breaking, to facilitate folding and facilitate breaking with moreeffort, or to facilitate breaking with little effort.

The phrase “in registry with” as used herein refers to the alignment oftwo or more elements in an erected carton, such as an aperture formed ina first of two overlapping panels and a second aperture formed in asecond of two overlapping panels. Those elements in registry with eachother may be aligned with each other in the direction of the thicknessof the overlapping panels. For example, when an aperture in a firstpanel is “in registry with” a second aperture in a second panel that isplaced in an overlapping arrangement with the first panel, an edge ofthe aperture may extend along at least a portion of an edge of thesecond aperture and may be aligned, in the direction of the thickness ofthe first and second panels, with the second aperture.

1. A collapsible article carrier comprising a collapsible tubularstructure and an end closure, the end closure comprising a first paneland a second panel, the first panel comprising a proximal portion hingedto the tubular structure along a first fold line and a distal portionadjacent to the proximal portion, the second panel being hinged to thetubular structure along third fold line and being secured to the distalportion in face-contacting arrangement, and the first and third foldlines being parallel to one another, the distal portion having a firstfree edge non-parallel to the first fold line, wherein the second panelhas a second free edge at least part of which is configuredcomplementary to at least part of the first free edge and is disposedoffset from the first free edge such that the first and second freeedges extend alongside one another.
 2. An article carrier according toclaim 1, wherein the first and second panels are bottom panels of thecarrier.
 3. An article carrier according to claim 1, wherein a pluralityof primary panels provide walls of the tubular structure and define aninterior of the carrier, the walls including first and second opposedside walls and first and second opposed end walls.
 4. An article carrieraccording to claim 3, wherein the first and second panels are hinged toa respective one of the first and second opposed side walls.
 5. Anarticle carrier according to claim 3, wherein the second free edgeoffset o the first free edge in a direction along the first fold line.6. An article carrier according to claim 3, wherein the first and secondopposed end walls each comprise a hinge to facilitate folding of thecollapsible tubular structure between a stowed condition and an erectedcondition.
 7. An article carrier according to claim 1, wherein each ofthe first and second edges comprises at least one straight segmentextending obliquely with respect to the first fold line.
 8. An articlecarrier according to claim 7, wherein the at least one straight segmentcomprises two or more straight edge segments each angled with respect toan adjacent one of the straight segments.
 9. An article carrieraccording to claim 7, wherein each of the first and second edges furthercomprises at least one curved segment.
 10. An article carrier accordingto claim 1, wherein each of the first and second edges comprises ashaped edge.
 11. An article carrier according to claim 10, wherein theshaped edge comprises at least one curved segment.
 12. An articlecarrier according to claim 10, wherein the shaped edge has serpentineshape.
 13. An article carrier according to claim wherein the first panelmay comprise at least one post receiving opening or recess.
 14. Anarticle carrier according to claim 1, wherein the second panel maycomprise at least one post receiving opening or recess.
 15. An articlecarrier according to claim 1, wherein the distal portion is hinged tothe proximal portion along a second fold line.
 16. An article carrieraccording to claim 15, wherein the first panel may comprise at least onepost receiving opening or recess.
 17. An article carrier according toclaim 16, wherein the at least one post receiving opening may interruptthe second fold line.
 18. An article carrier according to claim 1,wherein the end closure is foldable.
 19. A collapsible article carriercomprising a collapsible tubular structure and a foldable end closure,the end closure comprising a first panel and a second panel, the firstpanel comprising a proximal portion hinged to the tubular structurealong a first fold line and a distal portion hinged to the proximalportion along a second fold line, the second panel being hinged to thetubular structure along third fold line and being secured to the distalportion in face-contacting arrangement, and the first, second, and thirdfold lines being parallel to one another, the distal portion having afirst free edge non-parallel to the first fold line, and wherein thesecond panel has a second free edge which is configured identical, atleast in part, to at least part of the first free edge and is disposedoffset from the first free edge such that the first and second freeedges extend alongside one another.
 20. An article carrier according toclaim 19, wherein each of the first and second edges comprises at leastone straight segment extending obliquely with respect to the first foldline.
 21. An article carrier according to claim 20, wherein the at leastone straight segment comprises two or more straight edge segments eachangled with respect to an adjacent one of the straight segments.
 22. Anarticle carrier according to claim 20, wherein each of the first andsecond edges further comprises at least one curved segment.
 23. Anarticle carrier according to claim 19, wherein each of the first andsecond edges comprises a shaped edge.
 24. An article carrier accordingto claim 23, wherein the shaped edge comprises at least one curvedsegment.
 25. An article carrier according to claim 23, wherein theshaped edge has a serpentine shape.
 26. An article carrier according toclaim 19, wherein the article carrier comprises a medial partition wallinterposed parallel between first and second side panels to divide theinterior into two or more article-receiving cells.
 27. A blank forforming an article carrier, the blank comprising a plurality of primarypanels for forming walls of a tubular structure defining an interiorchamber, and a first panel and a second panel for forming a foldable endclosure, the first panel comprising a proximal portion hinged, along afirst fold line, to one of the panels forming a wall of the tubularstructure and a distal portion hinged to the proximal portion along asecond fold line, the second panel being hinged, along third fold line,to a second one of the panels forming an opposing wall of the tubularstructure, the second panel being configured to be securable to thedistal portion in face-contacting arrangement in at least partialoverlapping relationship therewith, wherein the first, second, and thirdfold lines are parallel to one another, and wherein the distal portionhas a first free edge non-parallel to the first fold line, and thesecond panel has a second free edge at least part of which is shapedcomplementary to at least part of the first free edge and wherein thesecond free edge is disposed offset from the first free edge when theblank is erected to form an article carrier.
 28. A blank according toclaim 27, wherein the second free edge is offset from the first freeedge in a direction along the first fold line when the blank is erectedto form the carrier.
 29. A blank according to claim 27, wherein thesecond free edge is arranged to extend alongside the first free edgewhen the blank is erected to form the carrier.
 30. A blank for formingan article carrier, the blank comprising a plurality of primary panelsfor forming walls of a tubular structure defining an interior chamber,and a first panel and a second panel for forming a foldable end closure,the first panel comprising a proximal portion hinged, along a first foldline, to one of the panels forming a wall of the tubular structure and adistal portion hinged to the proximal portion along a second fold line,the second panel being hinged, along a third fold line, to a second oneof the panels forming an opposing wall of the tubular structure, thesecond panel being configured to be securable to the distal portion inface-contacting arrangement in at least partial overlapping relationshiptherewith, wherein the first, second, and third fold lines are parallelto one another, and wherein the distal portion has a first free edgenon-parallel to the first fold line, and the second panel has a secondfree edge at least part of which is shaped identical to at least part ofthe first free edge and wherein the second free edge is disposed offsetfrom the first free edge when the blank is erected to form an articlecarrier.
 31. A blank according to claim 27 or claim 30, wherein one ofthe plurality of primary panels comprises a medial panel, the medialpanel comprising a plurality of score lines, the plurality of scorelines being arranged substantially parallel to each other and in aseries such that each score line is adjacent another score line.
 32. Ablank according to claim 27 or claim 30, wherein one of the plurality ofprimary panels comprises a medial panel. the medial panel comprising anembossed region.
 33. A blank according to claim 31, wherein the medialpanel further comprises an embossed region positioned adjacent torespective end points of the plurality of score lines.
 34. A cartoncomprising a plurality of walls at least some of which define aninterior of the carton, wherein one of the plurality of walls comprisesa planar wall structure which includes a first panel and a second panel,the first and second panels are secured together in an overlappingarrangement such that at least the first panel comprises a first area inflat-face contacting arrangement with the second panel and a second areawhich is free of contact with the second panel, wherein the first panelfurther comprises a plurality of score lines formed along the secondarea.
 35. A carton according to claim 34 wherein each of the score linesis linear and the score lines are arranged substantially parallel toeach other and in a series such that each score line is adjacent anotherscore line.
 36. A carton according to claim 34 wherein the second panelhas a free edge disposed along a boundary of the first and second areasof the first panel and wherein the free edge extends substantiallyparallel to the plurality of score lines.
 37. A carton according toclaim 34 where the first panel further comprises an embossed regionwithin the second area, the embossed region being positioned adjacent torespective end points of the plurality of score lines.
 38. An articlecarrier for packaging one or more articles comprising a plurality ofwalls at least some of which define an interior of the article carrier,wherein one of the plurality of walls comprises a medial wall dividingthe interior into at least two interior cells, the medial wallcomprising a first panel and a second panel, the first and second panelsbeing secured together in an overlapping arrangement such that at leastthe first panel comprises a first area in flat-face contactingarrangement with the second panel and a second area which is free ofcontact with the second panel, wherein the first panel further comprisesa plurality of score lines formed along the second area.
 39. An articlecarrier according to claim 38 wherein the plurality of score lines arearranged substantially parallel to each other and in a series such thateach score line is adjacent another score line.
 40. A blank for forminga carton, the blank comprising a plurality of panels at least some ofwhich define an interior of the carton when the bank is erected into acarton, the plurality of panels comprises a first panel and a secondpanel which, when the blank is erected into a carton, are securedtogether in an overlapping arrangement such that at least the firstpanel comprises a first area in flat-face contacting arrangement withthe second panel and a second area which is free of contact with thesecond panel, and wherein the first panel further comprises a pluralityof score lines formed along the second area.
 41. A blank according toclaim 40 wherein each of the score lines is linear and the score linesare arranged substantially parallel to each other and in a series suchthat each score line is adjacent another score line.
 42. A blankaccording to claim 40 wherein the second panel has a free edge which isdisposed along a boundary of the first and second areas of the firstpanel when the blank is erected into a carton and wherein the free edgeextends substantially parallel to the plurality of score lines.
 43. Ablank according to claim 41 wherein the first panel further comprises anembossed region within the second area, the embossed region beingpositioned adjacent to respective end points of the plurality of scorelines.
 44. An article carrier for packaging one or more articles, thearticle carrier comprising a collapsible tubular structure and an endclosure, the end closure comprising a first panel and a second panel,the first panel being hinged to the tubular structure along a first foldline, the first panel comprising an opposing first free edge, at leastone first panel-interlocking element, and a row of first handlingopenings, the row of first handling openings being located closer to thefirst fold line than the at, least one first panel-interlocking element,wherein the second panel is hinged to the tubular structure along secondfold line and comprises an opposing second free edge and at least onesecond panel-interlocking element, the first and secondpanel-interlocking elements are aligned and engaged together such thatthe first and second panels are in face-contacting overlappingarrangement, the first panel has a first side edge extending between thefirst fold line and the first free edge, the second panel has a secondside edge extending between the second fold line and the second freeedge, wherein at least a part of the first side edge is configuredcomplementary to at least a part of the second side edge, and wherein atleast a part of the second side edge is disposed between the at leastone first panel-interlocking element and one of the first handlingopenings such that no part of the second side edge overlaps any one ofthe at least one first panel-interlocking element and the first handlingopenings.
 45. An article carrier according to claim 44 wherein at leastpart of the second free edge is disposed between the first fold line anda first notional line.
 46. An article carrier according to claim 44wherein at least part of the first free edge is disposed between secondfold line and a second notional line.
 47. An article carrier accordingto claim 44 wherein the second panel comprises a row of second handlingopenings.
 48. An article carrier according to claim 47 wherein the rowof second handling openings is located closer to the second fold linethan the at least one second panel-interlocking element.
 49. An articlecarrier according to claim 48 wherein at least a part of the first sideedge is disposed between the at least one second panel-interlockingelement and one of second handling openings such that no part of thefirst side edge overlaps any one of the at least one secondpanel-interlocking element and the second handling openings.
 50. Anarticle carrier for packaging one or more articles, the article carriercomprising a plurality of primary panels forming a tubular structuredefining an interior of the article carrier and an intermediate walldividing the interior into two chambers, wherein the intermediate wallcomprises an article guard comprising at least one flap configured to bedisposed between an article and a post of a tertiary package, receivablein the interior of the article carrier, the at least one flap defines,at least in part, an opening in the intermediate wall for receiving saidpost.
 51. An article carrier for packaging one or more articles, thearticle carrier comprising a plurality of primary panels forming atubular structure defining an interior of the article carrier, an endwall closing an end of the tubular structure, and an intermediate walldividing the interior into a pair of chambers, the intermediate wallcomprising a post receiving opening and a securing device for retainingthe carrier in an erected condition, wherein the post receiving openingis arranged to accommodate at least one post of a tertiary packagereceivable in the article carrier through the end wall, the securingdevice comprises a hook or catch defined at least in part by a portionof post receiving opening, wherein the securing device and the postreceiving opening are defined in entirety within the intermediate wall.52. An article carrier according to claim 51 wherein the securing deviceand the post receiving opening defined in entirety within a panelforming the intermediate wall.
 53. An article carrier for packaging oneor more articles, the article carrier comprising a plurality of primarypanels forming a tubular structure defining an interior of the articlecarrier and an intermediate wall dividing the interior into a pair ofchambers, the intermediate wall comprises a post receiving opening andat least one partition structure, wherein the at least one partitionstructure separates one of the pair of chambers into two or morearticle-receiving cells, the post receiving opening is arranged toaccommodate at least one post of a tertiary package receivable in theinterior of the article carrier, wherein the post receiving opening isdisposed between the at least one partition structure and an end wallclosing an end of the tubular structure and is spaced apart from the atleast one partition structure by a portion of the intermediate wall. 54.A packaging system comprising the article carrier according to claim 53,a plurality of articles disposed in the interior of the carrier and atertiary package in which the carrier is disposed, wherein the post isreceived in the interior of the carrier and is disposed in a voiddefined at least in part by two or more articles, and wherein theportion of the intermediate wall between the at least one partitionstructure and the post receiving opening is disposed over said at leastone post.
 55. An article carrier for packaging one or more articles, thearticle carrier comprising a plurality of primary panels forming atubular structure defining an interior of the article carrier, an endwall closing an end of the tubular structure, and an intermediate walldividing the interior into a pair of chambers, the intermediate wallcomprising a first medial panel and a second medial panel, the secondmedial panel being hingedly connected to a first edge of the firstmedial panel by a hinged connection, the first edge of the first medialpanel facing the end wall, the first medial panel and a second medialpanel comprise at least one cutaway interrupting the hinged connectionand defining a recess in each of first and second medial panels, therecess in each of first and second medial panels forms a post receivingopening between the intermediate wall and the end wall for receiving atleast one post of a tertiary package.
 56. A blank for forming thearticle carrier according to any of claims 44 to 55.